Aviary walkway and ventilation system and method of circulating air in an aviary

ABSTRACT

The present embodiments provide an aviary that includes a floor, a roof, and at least one wall having a plenum to draw air adjacent the roof down the plenum toward the floor. At least one cage tower is disposed on the floor. At least one walkway is disposed adjacent the at least one cage tower and is configured to facilitate bird access to the at least one cage tower. A fan is disposed in flow communication with the plenum to circulate air in the aviary.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to and is a divisionalapplication of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/530,807, filed Nov.2, 2014; continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/071,160, filed Nov. 4, 2013, and having the title “AVIARY CAGE WITHEGG AND MANURE REMOVAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING THE SAME,”which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,130,078 on Nov. 20, 2018; U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/181,379, filed Feb. 14, 2014, and having thetitle “AVIARY CAGE,” which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,307,747 on Jun. 12,2016; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/181,463, filed Feb. 14, 2014,and having the title “CAGE-FREE AVIARY,” which issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,104,872 on Oct. 23, 2018; U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/217,548, filed Mar. 18, 2014, and having the title “AVIARY CAGE WITHMANURE REMOVAL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING THE SAME,” whichissued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,538,713 on Jan. 10, 2017; each of which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments herein generally relate to aviaries and, moreparticularly, to an aviary walkway and ventilation system.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

Generally, aviaries include at least one fan to circulate air within theaviary. Often a vent is positioned at a front of the aviary to permitair to enter the aviary. A fan may be positioned at a back of the aviaryto draw the air through the aviary. This form of aviary ventilation isreferred to as tunnel ventilation. The air drawn through the aviarycools the aviary, assists in the drying of manure in the aviary, andremoves harmful gases. Therefore, depending on the season, tunnelventilation can be advantageous (when the weather is warm) ordisadvantageous (when the air outside is cooler than is healthy for thebirds in the aviary). Unfortunately, tunnel ventilation is notrecommended for use during cooler months. If cold air is drawn into theaviary and directly contacts hens, the hens become stressed. Stressedhens tend to cluster together for warmth, and this can result indangerous conditions due to overcrowding. If tunnel ventilation is notoperating and the aviary is sealed to outside airflow, gases dangerousto poultry health such as ammonia can build up and create additionalstress for the birds.

Traditional aviary design for efficient egg production involves the useof battery cages in which identical cages are arranged in rows andcolumns and connected together. Each individual cage contains severalbirds, and the amount of space per bird is low. Birds housed in batterycages do not have enough space to fly or move very far, so when thosebirds are introduced into a “cage free” environment for the first time,they must adjust their leg and wing muscles to successfully negotiatethe new environment. “Cage free” indicates that the hens are able tomove through a much larger space than is available in conventionalbattery cages.

A need remains for a ventilation system that can be used in coolermonths without stressing poultry in the aviary. A need also exists for awalkway system that helps train birds familiar with the traditionalbattery cage environment to adjust to the cage free environment and thatfacilitates airflow in an aviary by efficiently circulating warm airthrough the aviary to reduce hot spots and cold spots while alsoimproving manure drying in the aviary.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

In one embodiment, an aviary is provided that includes a floor, a roof,at least one cage tower, and at least one wall having a plenum to drawair adjacent the roof down the plenum toward the floor. The at least onecage tower is disposed on the floor. The at least one walkway isdisposed adjacent the at least one cage tower and configured tofacilitate bird access to the at least one cage tower. A fan is disposedin flow communication with the plenum to circulate air in the aviary.

In one embodiment, an aviary is provided that includes a floor and atleast one wall having a plenum to draw air toward the floor. At leastone cage tower is disposed on the floor. At least one walkway isdisposed adjacent the at least one cage tower and configured tofacilitate bird access to the at least one cage tower. A fan is disposedin flow communication with the plenum to circulate the air in theaviary.

In one embodiment, a method of circulating air in an aviary is provided.The method includes providing an aviary including at least one wall, afloor, a plenum in the at least one wall of the aviary, and at least onewalkway. The method further includes drawing air having a temperaturehigher than air located outside of the aviary toward the floor throughthe plenum and drawing air located outside of the aviary through theplenum and into the aviary. The method further includes mixing thehigher temperature air and the outside air to create mixed air andcirculating the mixed air around the at least one walkway.

In one embodiment, a method of circulating air in an aviary including atleast one wall, a plenum disposed on the at least one wall of theaviary, a floor, at least one cage tower, and at least one walkwayadjacent the at least one cage tower, is provided. The method includesdrawing air having a temperature higher than air located outside of theaviary toward the floor through the plenum. The method further includesdrawing air located outside of the aviary through the plenum and intothe aviary. The method further includes mixing the higher temperatureair and the outside air to create mixed air; and the method furtherincludes circulating the mixed air around the at least one walkway.

In one embodiment, a method of circulating air in an aviary is provided.The method includes providing an aviary having at least one wall, a topspace, a floor, a plenum in the at least one wall of the aviary, atleast one cage tower, and at least one walkway adjacent the at least onecage tower. The method further includes drawing air from the top spaceof the aviary toward the floor through the plenum and circulating theair around the at least one walkway.

Other embodiments are also disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The embodiments described herein and other features, advantages anddisclosures contained herein, and the manner of attaining them, willbecome apparent and the present disclosure will be better understood byreference to the following description of various exemplary embodimentsof the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawing, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance with anembodiment.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the aviary cage shown in FIG. 1 without theinterior components of the cage towers.

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the aviary cage shown in FIG. 1without the interior components of the cage towers.

FIG. 4 is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance withanother embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a side perspective view of a conventional egg finger belt.

FIG. 6 is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance withanother embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the aviary cage shown in FIG. 6 without theinterior components of the cage towers.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the aviary cage shown in FIG. 6without the interior components of the cage towers.

FIG. 9 is a top view of a mesh floor.

FIG. 10 is a front view of an aviary cage formed in accordance withanother embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a front view of a gate formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of the gate shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of a cage tower formed in accordancewith another embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 16 is a side view of a cage in a cage tower shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17A is a perspective top view of an egg collector formed inaccordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 17B is a perspective top view of an egg collector formed inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a front view of a gate formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 19 is a side perspective view of the gate shown in FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective view of a cage tower formed inaccordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 22 is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 23 is a side view of an aviary cage in a cage tower shown in FIG.22.

FIG. 24 is a front view of an aviary formed in accordance with anotherembodiment.

FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of an aviary cage shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of a first aviary cage, a secondaviary cage, and a scratching floor shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 is a top view of a mesh floor.

FIG. 28 is an expanded view of a scratching floor, a grate, a side of anaviary cage, and a belt formed in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 29 is an enlarged front view of an aviary formed in accordance withan embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a side view of the aviary shown in FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 illustrates a method of circulating air in an aviary.

FIG. 32 illustrates a method of circulating air in an aviary.

FIG. 33 illustrates a method of circulating air in an aviary.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of thepresent disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodimentsillustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used todescribe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitationof the scope of this disclosure is thereby intended.

The present embodiments provide aviaries having open space that mayinclude a floor serving as a pecking area where hens can move freely,peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the floor with their feet.By permitting space for the hens to move freely, the aviary cages of thepresent embodiments satisfy the requirements to be considered “cagefree” birds. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cage-free. In other words,the hens are not continuously confined to a caged area. The presentembodiments allow the removal of freshly laid eggs, which eggs may besold under the label “cage free” because they were laid outside of anest box environment. The present embodiments also prevent eggs frombecoming contaminated due to slow retrieval thereof from the scratchingareas or cage floors (during which time the eggs could be infiltrated bybacteria).

Some embodiments include at least one belt extending through the cagetower below the nesting area to remove a deposit from at least part ofthe cage tower. A deposit may include, but is not limited to, one ormore items such as manure, an egg, litter, feathers, feed, or a deadbird. In one embodiment, the belt extends through the cage tower alongthe length of the cage tower. In one embodiment, the belt extendsapproximately 400 feet along the length of the cage tower. In oneembodiment, the belt carries manure from the cage tower to a collectionarea (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower. By removingdeposits, particularly manure, from at least part of the cage tower,ammonia levels within the aviary are significantly reduced.Additionally, the need for an individual to enter the cage and clean thecage by hand is greatly reduced. Accordingly, the present embodimentspermit one person to care for 150,000 to 200,000 birds, compared withthe 3-5 people per 150,000 to 200,000 birds required when known cagesand aviaries are used. The present embodiments also eliminate therequirement for extreme body positions, including squatting for extendedperiods of time and crawling and lying on the floor while loading andunloading the cage and while gathering eggs from the cage. The presentembodiments further reduce potential respiratory hazards and infectionhazards to the workers. If a hen lays an egg outside of the nestingarea, the egg will be collected by the belt and carried to an eggcollection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower.

It should be noted that the various elements of each of the embodimentsdescribed below may be combined in any manner to form new embodiments ofan aviary.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate an aviary 10 configured with a manure removalsystem 12 according to one embodiment. The aviary 10 may include aconcrete floor 14 enclosed by exterior walls 16. The exterior walls 16enclose at least two cage towers 18 where hens may be caged. Althoughthe present embodiment illustrates only two cage towers 18, it should benoted that the aviary 10 may be constructed with any number of cagetowers 18, including a single cage tower 18. An open space 20 extendsbetween the two cage towers 18 to provide an inspection area. In anembodiment having more than two cage towers 18, an open space 20 mayextend between each adjacent cage tower 18. In an embodiment having asingle cage tower 18, an open space 20 is present on at least one sideof the cage tower 18. In an embodiment, open space 20 is positionedbetween the cage tower 18 and the respective exterior wall 16.

Each cage tower 18 includes at least one nesting area 22. The nestingarea 22, as illustrated, may include various sloped nesting platforms 24where a hen may sit to lay eggs. The nesting platforms 24 may be offsetfrom sloped platforms 26 that allow the hens to move freely up and downthe cage tower 18 to a desirable nesting area 22. As the hens lay theireggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors 28 that extend along thesides of the nesting platforms 24. The egg conveyors 28 carry the eggsfrom the nesting area 22 to a collection area.

In one embodiment, the belt 36 forms a floor of the cage tower 18.Accordingly, the birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt36. In addition to collecting eggs and manure, the belt 36 may alsoremove dead birds from at least part of a cage tower 18. The illustratedembodiment includes a belt 36 positioned beneath each nesting area 22.In addition to the belts 36 positioned below the nesting area 22, a belt36 is likewise positioned above each nesting area 22. The belts 36 aboveeach nesting area 22 provide additional space for the hens to movefreely. Deposits, which may include, but are not limited to, manure,eggs, litter, feathers, feed, or dead birds, within the aviary 10 arecollected on the belts 36.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, at least one gate19 is positioned along each belt 36 to permit deposits on the belt 36 topass thereunder and/or therethrough and to prevent birds from travelingbeyond the gate. In the illustrated embodiment, the gate 19 includesplastic strips 21 extending downward from a solid partition 23. In theillustrated embodiment, the plastic strips 21 may be positionedapproximately 1½ inches from the belt 36. If a deposit on the belt 36 inthe illustrated embodiment is taller than the 1½ inch gap between thegate 19 and the belt 36, then the plastic strips 21 move when in contactwith such a deposit to allow the deposit to pass therethrough. In anembodiment, the gate 19 may be positioned so that its lower edge is incontact with the belt 36. In an embodiment, the gate 19 may includeplastic strips. In one embodiment, the gate 19 including plastic stripsmay be positioned so that the lower edges of the plastic strips are incontact with the belt 36. In an embodiment, the gate 19 may include ahinged door that moves to permit deposits larger than a gap between thehinged door and the belt 36 to pass thereunder. In an embodiment, thegate 19 may comprise one or more hinged doors to permit deposits largerthan a gap between the hinged doors and the belt 36 to pass thereunder.In an embodiment, the gate 19 may comprise one or more swinging doors topermit deposits larger than a gap between the swinging doors and thebelt 36 to pass thereunder. In an embodiment, an electric fence may bepositioned on the gate 19 to prevent live birds from entering the gate19. Alternately, an electric fence may be spaced apart from the gate 19to prevent birds from reaching and entering the gate 19. In embodimentsincluding at least one gate 19, birds are prevented from leaving a partof the aviary 10, while deposits are permitted to travel away from thatpart of the aviary 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor 38 extends from thecage tower 18. In some embodiments, the scratching floor is solid. In anembodiment having more than one cage tower 18, a scratching floor 38 mayextend between any adjacent cage towers 18. Additionally, a scratchingfloor 38 may extend between the cage tower 18 and the respectiveexterior wall 16. In an embodiment having more than two cage towers 18,a scratching floor may extend from adjacent cage towers 18 but not becontinuous between adjacent cage towers 18.

The scratching floor 38 is oriented with respect to at least one belt36. In one embodiment, the scratching floor 38 is planar with a belt 36from which the scratching floor 38 extends. Alternatively, thescratching floor 38 is sloped to allow deposits to move back toward thebelt 36, as shown in FIG. 4. The scratching floor 38 extends into theopen space 20 of the aviary 10. The scratching floor 38 provides yetanother pecking area for the hens to utilize while they are not nesting.In particular, the scratching floor 38 provides a scratching area forthe birds within the aviary 10. When the birds scratch the scratchingfloor 38, they scratch much of the deposits made on the scratching floor38 onto the respective belt 36. Accordingly, since it is common forbirds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratching floor 38 becomesrelatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch. The scratching floor 38 isconfigured so that the deposits are scratched back to the respectivebelt 36. Such configuration greatly reduces the amount of ammoniacaptured within the aviary 10 and also reduces the required frequencyfor cleaning of the aviary 10. Any eggs laid on the scratching floor 38may be directed back toward the belt 36 by the scratching of the hens.These eggs are then collected on the belt 36 and removed from the belt36. In one embodiment, the eggs are removed through the use of anyconventional egg finger belt 39, shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, positioned atthe end of the belt 36.

It should be noted that the cage tower 18 illustrated includes twonesting areas 22 positioned in a stacked configuration. Each nestingarea 22 may have its own belt 36 extending therebelow. Each belt 36 maybe joined to a corresponding belt 36 of the adjacent cage tower 18 by ascratching floor 38. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art,the configuration of the nesting areas 22, belts 36, and scratchingfloor 38 can be unstacked to have just one level of nesting areas 22,belts 36, and a scratching floor 38 or can be repeated any number oftimes to create the desired number of levels in a stacked configurationwithin the aviary 10. As will also be appreciated by one of skill in theart, each level may contain multiple nesting areas 22 set adjacent eachother to permit or prohibit, as desired, bird movement from one nestingarea to another.

The present invention also provides a method of constructing an aviary10 for deposit removal. The method includes positioning a belt 36beneath a nesting area 22 to remove a deposit therefrom. In oneembodiment, the belt 36 is configured to capture eggs laid outside ofthe nesting area 22. The method also includes extending a scratchingfloor 38 from the belt 36. In one embodiment, the scratching floor 38 isplanar with the belt 36 from which the scratching floor 38 extends. Inanother embodiment, the scratching floor 38 is sloped toward the belt 36to facilitate the movement of deposits, with or without the assistanceof gravity, from the scratching floor 38 onto the belt 36. In oneembodiment, the scratching floor 38 forms a scratching area for birds inthe aviary 10. In one embodiment, the scratching area is configured forthe birds to scratch manure on the scratching floor 38 onto the belt 36.In one embodiment, a belt 36 is also positioned along a top of thenesting area 22. In one embodiment, a belt 36 is also positioned along afloor 14 of the aviary 10.

In one embodiment, the method includes positioning at least two nestingareas 22 in a stacked configuration. The method also includes extendinga belt 36 below each nesting area 22. The method also includes extendinga scratching floor 38 from a belt 36 to a corresponding belt 36 of anadjacent nesting area 22.

In one embodiment, the method includes positioning at least two nestingareas 22 in a stacked configuration. The method also includes extendinga belt 36 below each nesting area 22. The method also includes extendinga scratching floor 38 from each belt 36, but not making the scratchingfloor 38 extending from a belt 36 of a first nesting area 22 continuouswith a scratching floor 38 extending from a corresponding belt 36 of anadjacent nesting area 22.

FIGS. 6-8 illustrate an aviary 110 configured with a manure removalsystem 112. The aviary 110 includes a concrete floor 114 enclosed byexterior walls 116. The exterior walls 116 enclose at least one cagetower 118 where hens are caged to lay eggs. Although the illustratedembodiment shows only two cage towers 118, it should be noted that theaviary 110 may be constructed with any number of cage towers 118,including a single cage tower 118. An open space 120 extends between thetwo cage towers 118. In an embodiment having more than two cage towers118, an open space 120 extends between each adjacent cage tower 118. Inan embodiment having a single cage tower 118, an open space 120 ispresent on at least one side of the cage tower 118. In an embodiment,open space 120 is likewise positioned between cage tower 118 and therespective exterior wall 116.

Each cage tower 118 includes at least one nesting area 122. The nestingarea 122, as illustrated, may include various nesting platforms 124where the hen may sit to lay eggs. The nesting platforms 124 allow thehens to move freely up and down the cage tower 118 to a desirablenesting area 122. As the hens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected inegg conveyors 128 that extend along the sides of the nesting platforms124. The egg conveyors 128 carry the eggs from the nesting area 122 toan egg collection area (not shown).

A mesh floor 130, as shown in FIG. 9, is positioned beneath each nestingarea 122. In particular, the hens may leave the nesting area 122 andgather on the mesh floor 130. Like the open space 120, the mesh floor130 provides an area for the hens to peck and scratch. The mesh floor130 is formed from metal, plastic, or the like. The mesh floor 130includes openings 134 therein that are sized to receive an eggtherethrough, but are also spaced so as to support a hen. The openings134 allow deposits such as, by way of example and not of limitation,manure, feed, litter, feathers, and eggs to pass therethrough.

A belt 136 extends below the mesh floor 130 to remove deposits that fallthrough openings 134 in the mesh floor 130. In one embodiment, the belt136 extends substantially the length of the cage tower 118 and carriesmanure from the cage tower 118 to a collection area (not shown)positioned outside of the cage tower 118. Moreover, if a hen lays an eggoutside of the nesting area 122 on the mesh floor 130, the egg islikewise collected by the belt 136 and carried to an egg collection area(not shown).

In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor 138 extends betweenthe mesh floors 130 of the cage towers 118. In an embodiment having morethan two cage towers 118, a scratching floor 138 may extend between anyadjacent cage towers 118. In an embodiment having a single cage tower118, a scratching floor 138 may extend from the cage tower 118.Additionally, a scratching floor 138 may extend between a cage tower 118and an adjacent exterior wall 116. In one embodiment, the scratchingfloor 138 is planar with the mesh floors 130 between which thescratching floor 138 extends. Alternatively, the scratching floor 138may be sloped toward the mesh floor 130, as illustrated in FIG. 10. Thescratching floor 138 extends into the open space 120 of the aviary 110.

The scratching floor 138 provides yet another pecking area for the hensto utilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratchingfloor 138 provides a scratching area for the hens to scratch and peckwithin the aviary 110. When the birds scratch, they may scratch depositson the scratching floor 138 through the mesh floor 130 and onto the belt136. Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in theirscratching area, the scratching floor 138 becomes self-cleaning as thehens scratch. The scratching floor 138 is configured so that thedeposits are scratched back to the mesh floor 130. Such configurationgreatly reduces the amount of ammonia captured within the aviary 110while also reducing the requirement for frequent cleaning of the aviary110. Any eggs laid on the scratching floor 138 may be directed backtoward the mesh floor 30 by the scratching of the hens. These eggs arethen collected on the belt 136 and removed from the belt 136. In oneembodiment, the eggs are removed through the use of any conventional eggfinger belt 39, shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, positioned at the end of thebelt 136.

It should be noted that the cage towers 118 illustrated each include atleast two nesting areas 122 positioned in a stacked configuration. Eachnesting area 122 has its own mesh floor 130 and belt 136 extendingtherebelow. Each mesh floor 130 is joined to a corresponding mesh floor130 of the adjacent cage tower 118 by a scratching floor 138. As will beappreciated by one of skill in the art, the configuration of the nestingareas 122, mesh floors 130, belts 136, and scratching floors 138 can berepeated any number of times in a stacked configuration within theaviary 110. As well, a single belt 136 may underlie multiple nestingareas 122 in a single level in a cage tower 118.

The present invention also provides a method of constructing an aviary110 to facilitate deposit removal. The method includes positioning amesh floor 130 beneath a nesting area 122. The method also includespositioning a belt 136 below the mesh floor 130 to remove deposits thatfall through openings 134 in the mesh floor 130. In one embodiment, thebelt 136 is configured to capture eggs laid outside of the nesting area122. The method also includes extending a scratching floor 138 from themesh floor 130 to a mesh floor 130 of an adjacent nesting area 122. Inone embodiment, the scratching floor 138 is planar with the mesh floors130 between which the scratching floor 138 extends. Alternatively, thescratching floor 138 can be sloped toward the mesh floor 130. In oneembodiment, the scratching floor 138 forms a scratching area for birdsin the aviary 110. In one embodiment, the scratching area is configuredfor the birds to scratch deposits on the scratching floor 138 from thescratching floor 138 to the mesh floor 130 and through the mesh floor130 to the belt 136.

FIG. 13 illustrates an aviary 1010 having a floor 1014 and which isenclosed by exterior walls 1016 and a roof 1040. The exterior walls 1016define an interior surface 1030. The exterior walls 1016 enclose atleast one cage tower 1018 where hens may be caged. Although theillustrated embodiment includes three cage towers 1018, it should benoted that the aviary 1010 may be constructed with any number of cagetowers 1018, including a single cage tower 1018. In an embodiment withmultiple cage towers 1018, an aisle 1020 extends between each cage tower1018 to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housedin the aviary 1010 may move. In an embodiment having a single cage tower1018, an aisle 1020 is present on at least one side of the cage tower1018. In an embodiment, an aisle 1020 is positioned between a cage tower1018 and the respective exterior wall 1016. At least one scratchingfloor 1011 extends between each at least one cage tower 1018. In anembodiment, at least one scratching floor 1011 is positioned between acage tower 1018 and the respective exterior wall 1016.

Each at least one cage tower 1018 includes at least one aviary cage1021. Each at least one aviary cage 1021 includes a first outsidesurface 1022 enclosing an inside area 1013. Each at least one cage tower1018 includes an outside surface 1031 enclosing an inside area 1032. Atleast one bump rail 1015 extends from the outside surface 1031 and intothe aisle 1020 to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle1020 without damaging the at least one cage tower 1018 or the at leastone aviary cage 1021. The bump rail 1015 may be used by the birds as aperch.

In an embodiment, the aviary 1010 includes at least two cage towers1018A and 1018B. In an embodiment, a first cage tower 1018A includes afirst aviary cage 1021A, and a second cage tower 1018B includes a secondaviary cage 1021B, which second aviary cage 1021B is similar to thefirst aviary cage 1021A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cagetower 1018C includes a third aviary cage 1021C, which third aviary cage1021C is similar to the first aviary cage 1021A and the second aviarycage 1021B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages 1021A arestacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each aviary cage 1021has a first end 1005 and a second end 1007. In an embodiment, a level inat least one cage tower 1018 is formed by placing at least two aviarycages 1021 in a row, with the first end 1005 of a first aviary cage 1021adjacent the second end 1007 of a second aviary cage 1021, as shown inFIG. 14. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage 1021A has a firstoutside surface 1022A enclosing an inside area 1013A. In an embodiment,multiple second aviary cages 1021B are stacked on top of one another. Inan embodiment, each second aviary cage 1021B includes an outside surface1022B enclosing an inside area 1013B. In an embodiment, multiple thirdaviary cages 1021C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment,each third aviary cage 1021C includes an outside surface 1022C enclosingan inside area 1013C. The second aviary cage 1021B is positionedadjacent the first aviary cage 1021A and an aisle 1020 is formedtherebetween. The second aviary cage 1021B is also positioned adjacentthe third aviary cage 1021C and an aisle 1020 is formed therebetween.

In an embodiment, a scratching floor 1011 extends between at least oneaviary cage 1021 and the interior surface 1030 of an adjacent exteriorwall 1016. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 1011 extends between thefirst aviary cage 1021A and the second aviary cage 1021B. In anembodiment, a scratching floor 1011 extends between the second aviarycage 1021B and the third aviary cage 1021C. In an embodiment, ascratching floor 1011 extends from the outside surface 1031 of the cagetower 1018.

In an embodiment, the scratching floor 1011 is configured so that aworker can walk across the scratching floor 1011 between the cage towers1018A and 1018B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 1011 is configuredso that a worker can walk between cage tower 1018A and the respectiveexterior wall 1016. In an embodiment, the scratching floor 1011 isconfigured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor 1011between the cage towers 1018C and 1018B. In an embodiment, a scratchingfloor 1011 is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower1018C and the respective exterior wall 1016. The scratching floor 1011serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floorwith their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor 1011 with their feet.In one embodiment, the scratching floor 1011 is sloped (not shown)toward the respective aviary cage 1021 to allow deposits to move backtoward the aviary cage 1021. In an embodiment including a beltpositioned under each aviary cage 1021, the scratching floor 1011 issloped toward the respective belt to allow deposits to move back towardthe belt.

The first outside surface 1022 of the at least one aviary cage 1021includes a first perch 1029 extending into the aisle 1020. In anembodiment, each perch 1029 may extend a portion of the length of the atleast one cage tower 1018. In an embodiment, each perch 1029 may extendsubstantially the entire length of the at least one cage tower 1018. Inan embodiment, the interior surface 1030 of the exterior wall 1016includes a second perch 1029D extending into the aisle 1020. In anembodiment, each perch 1029D may extend a portion of the length of theinterior surface 1030 of the exterior wall 1016 of the aviary 1010. Inan embodiment, each perch 1029D may extend substantially the entirelength of the interior surface 1030 of the exterior wall 1016.

In some embodiments, the perch 1029, 1029D is solid. In one embodiment,the perch 1029, 1029D may be square. In one embodiment, the perch 1029,1029D may be round. In one embodiment, a square perch 1029, 1029D mayhave a width of ¾ inches to 2 inches. In one embodiment, a round perch1029, 1029D may have a diameter of ¾ inches to 2 inches. The width ordiameter of the perch 1029, 1029D is configured to allow a hen to standon the perch 1029, 1029D.

Referring to an embodiment, a first perch 1029A extends from the firstoutside surface 1022A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor 1028Athat extends from the first outside surface 1022A and that extendssubstantially the length of the first cage tower 1018A. When hens laytheir eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor 1028A.The first egg conveyor 1028A carries the eggs from the aviary cage 1021Ato a collection area. The first perch 1029A extends into the aisle 1020at a first vertical distance 1023 from the scratching floor 1011. Asecond perch 1029B extends from the second outside surface 1022B and ispositioned above a second egg conveyor 1028B that extends from thesecond outside surface 1022B and that extends substantially the lengthof the second cage tower 1018B. The second egg conveyor 1028B carriesthe eggs from the aviary cage 1021B to a collection area. The secondperch 1029B extends into the aisle 1020 at a second vertical distance1025 from the scratching floor 1011. The first vertical distance 1023 isnot equal to the second vertical distance 1025.

In an embodiment, each of the perches 1029A, 1029B may extend a portionof the length of the respective cage tower 1018A, 1018B. In anembodiment, each of the perches 1029A, 1029B may extend the entirelength of the respective cage tower 1018A, 1018B. In some embodiments,the perches 1029A, 1029B are solid. In one embodiment, the perches1029A, 1029B may be square. In one embodiment, the perches 1029A, 1029Bmay be round. In one embodiment, the perches 1029A, 1029B may be squareor round. The width or diameter of the perches 1029A, 1029B isconfigured to allow a hen to stand on the perches 1029A, 1029B.

In an embodiment, the first vertical distance 1023 and the secondvertical distance 1025 define a third vertical distance 1027. The thirdvertical distance 1027 is configured to permit a bird to hop from thefirst perch 1029A to the second perch 1029B or vice versa.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviarydesign that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for asmany cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary 1010. In eachcase of an adjacent set of cage towers 1018, the perches 1029 of eachcage tower 1018 should be offset from the perches 1029 of the adjacentcage tower 1018 by the third vertical distance 1027 to enable a bird tohop from perch 1029 to perch 1029 through aisle 1020 in a ladder-likemanner.

In an embodiment, the first aviary cage 1021A may include multiple firstegg conveyors 1028A, and the second aviary cage 1021B may includemultiple second egg conveyors 1028B, wherein the first egg conveyors1028A and the second egg conveyors 1028B are staggered verticallyrelative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces1031A, 1031B of the cage towers 1018A, 1018B. In an embodiment, thefirst aviary cage 1021A may include multiple first perches 1029A, andthe second aviary cage 1021B may include multiple second perches 1029B,wherein the first perches 1029A and the second perches 1029B arestaggered vertically relative to each other along the first and secondoutside surfaces 1022A, 1022B of the aviary cages 1021A, 1021B.

In the illustrated embodiments, the scratching floors 1011 formsimilarly configured levels 1017 in the aviary 1010, wherein each level1017 may be accessed by a worker. A hen may walk, peck, scratch,socialize, sleep, and lay eggs, as the bird desires, in the inside area1013 and the inside area 1032. These same hen activities can be carriedout on the at least one scratching floor 1011. The at least one aviarycage 1021 may house a specific group of birds or it may be open to birdsfrom other aviary cages 1021. In an embodiment, the cage tower 1018 maybe configured to allow the birds to move freely up and down the cagetower 1018. In an embodiment, the cage tower 1018 may be configured tokeep birds in the aviary 1010 segregated by vertical level 1017. In anembodiment, the cage tower 1018 may be configured to keep birdssegregated horizontally within a level 1017 of the cage tower 1018. Whenthe hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in egg conveyors 1028that extend substantially the length of the cage tower 1018. The eggconveyor 1028 carries the eggs from the aviary cage 1021 to a collectionarea.

Each perch 1029 and each bump rail 1015 provide yet other areas for thehens to utilize when they are not confined to the at least one aviarycage 1021. In particular, hens may sit, hop, walk, scratch, socialize,sleep, and lay eggs from or on any perch 1029 and/or any bump rail 1015.

When a first perch 1029A and a second perch 1029B are included in anembodiment, the first vertical distance 1023 and the second verticaldistance 1025 define a third vertical distance 1027, which thirdvertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds tohop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effectbetween the outside surfaces 1022A, 1022B of the aviary cages 1021A,1021B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces 1031A, 1031B of the cagetowers 1018A, 1018B.

In one embodiment, an angle formed between the first perch 1029A and thesecond perch 1029B is no greater than 45°, which facilitates thebehavior of birds to hop or fly from one surface to another. In oneembodiment, a plurality of first and second perches 1029A, 1029B arespaced apart about the outside surfaces 1031A, 1031B of the respectivecage towers 1018A, 1018B. In an embodiment, each perch 1029A, 1029Bextends into the aisle 1020 to provide usable vertical space thatcreates additional habitable cubic inches for the birds, therebyenabling the aviary 1010 to be considered cage free.

In an embodiment, the first aviary cage 1021A may include multiple firstperches 1029A, corresponding to the number of first egg conveyors 1028A,and the second aviary cage 1021B may include multiple second perches1029B, corresponding to the number of second egg conveyors 1028B,wherein the first perches 1029A and the second perches 1029B arestaggered in relation to each other along the first and second outsidesurfaces 1031A, 1031B of the cage towers 1018A, 1018B. In oneembodiment, the first perches 1029A and the second perches 1029B arestaggered vertically on the first and second outside surfaces 1031A,1031B of the cage towers 1018A, 1018B. In one embodiment, the firstperches 1029A and the second perches 1029B are staggered horizontallyalong the first and second outside surfaces 1031A, 1031B of the cagetowers 1018A, 1018B.

In the illustrated embodiment, a cage tower 1018C is positioned adjacentthe exterior wall 1016 and includes an aviary cage 1021C adjacent thescratching floor 1011. An egg conveyor 1028C extends from an outsidesurface 1022C of the aviary cage 1021C and into the aisle 1020. A perch1029C extends from the outside surface 1022C of the aviary cage 1021Cand is positioned above the egg conveyor 1028C. A perch 1029D extendsfrom the interior surface 1030 of the exterior wall 1016 and into theaisle 1020.

In an embodiment, a perch 1029C is elevated at a first vertical distance1033 from the scratching floor 1011, and a perch 1029D is positioned ata second vertical distance 1035 from the scratching floor 1011. In anembodiment, the first vertical distance 1033 and the second verticaldistance 1035 define a third vertical distance 1037, which thirdvertical distance 1037 is configured to facilitate the behavior of birdsto hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effectbetween the aviary cage 1021C and the exterior wall 1016. In oneembodiment, an angle formed between the perch 1029C and the perch 1029Dis no greater than 45°, which configuration facilitates the behavior ofbirds to hop from one surface to another. In one embodiment, a pluralityof perches 1029C is spaced apart about the outside surface 1031C of thecage tower 1018C. In one embodiment, a plurality of perches 1029D isspaced apart about the interior surface 1030 of the exterior wall 1016.Each perch 1029C, 1029D extends into the aisle 1020 to provide usablevertical space that creates additional habitable cubic inches for thebirds, thereby enabling the aviary 1010 to be considered cage free.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, each of the perches 1029 may be offsethorizontally with respect to one another. The perches 1029 are offset ina spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behavior of birds to hopfrom one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect on theoutside surface 1022 of the aviary cage 1021 and, concomitantly, theoutside surface 1031 of the cage tower 1018. In an embodiment (notshown), the perches 1029 are sloped downward from the cage tower 1018.In an embodiment, the perches 1029 extend from the outside surface 1022parallel to the scratching floor 1011. In an embodiment (not shown), theperches 1029 may extend upward from the outside surface 1022 relative tothe cage tower 1018.

FIG. 15 illustrates an aviary 1110 having a floor 1114, exterior walls1116, and a roof 1140. The exterior walls 1116 define an interiorsurface 1130. The exterior walls 1116 enclose at least one cage tower1118 where hens may be caged. In an embodiment with multiple cage towers1118, an aisle 1120 extends between each cage tower 1118 to provide aninspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary 1110may move. In an embodiment having a single cage tower 1118, an aisle1120 is present on at least one side of the cage tower 1118. In anembodiment, an aisle 1120 is positioned between an end tower 1118 andthe respective exterior wall 1116. At least one scratching floor 1111extends between each at least one cage tower 1118. In an embodiment, atleast one scratching floor 1111 is positioned between an end cage tower1118 and the respective exterior wall 1116.

Each at least one cage tower 1118 includes at least one aviary cage1121. Each at least one aviary cage 1121 includes a first outsidesurface 1122 enclosing an inside area 1113. Each at least one cage tower1118 includes an outside surface 1131 enclosing an inside area 1132. Atleast one bump rail 1115 extends from the outside surface 1131 and intothe aisle 1120 to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle1120 without damaging the at least one cage tower 1118 or the at leastone aviary cage 1121. The bump rail 1115 may be used by the birds as aperch.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate at least one cage tower 1118. In anembodiment, the aviary 1110 includes at least two cage towers 1118A,1118B. In an embodiment, a first cage tower 1118A includes a firstaviary cage 1121A, and a second cage tower 1118B includes a secondaviary cage 1121B, which second aviary cage 1121B is similar to thefirst aviary cage 1121A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cagetower 1118C includes a third aviary cage 1121C, which third aviary cage1121C is similar to the first aviary cage 1121A and the second aviarycage 1121B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages 1121A arestacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, aviary cage 1121 has afirst end 1105 and a second end 1107. In an embodiment, a level in atleast one cage tower 1118 is formed by placing at least two aviary cages1121 in a row, with the first end 1105 of a first aviary cage 1121adjacent the second end 1107 of a second aviary cage 1121. In anembodiment, a divider 1103 may be positioned between the adjacent aviarycages 1121. For example, the divider 1103 may be positioned at thejuncture of the first end 1105 of the first aviary cage 1121 and thesecond end 1107 of the second aviary cage 1121. In that embodiment, thedivider 1103 prevents birds from roaming between the first aviary cage1121 and the second aviary cage 1121. In another embodiment (not shown),a gap may be positioned between the first end 1105 of the first aviarycage 1121 and the second end 1107 of the second aviary cage 1121. Inthat embodiment, the gap may be sized to prevent birds from traversingthe gap and roaming between the first aviary cage 1121 and the secondaviary cage 1121.

In an embodiment, each first aviary cage 1121A has a first outsidesurface 1122A enclosing an inside area 1113A. In an embodiment, multiplesecond aviary cages 1121B are stacked on top of one another. In anembodiment, each second aviary cage 1121B includes a second outsidesurface 1122B enclosing an inside area 1113B. In an embodiment, multiplethird aviary cages 1121C are stacked on top of one another. In anembodiment, each third aviary cage 1121C includes a third outsidesurface 1122C enclosing an inside area 1113C. The second aviary cage1121B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage 1121A and an aisle1120 is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage 1121B is alsopositioned adjacent the third aviary cage 1121C and an aisle 1120 isformed therebetween.

In an embodiment, a scratching floor 1111 extends between at least oneaviary cage 1121 and the interior surface 1130 of an adjacent exteriorwall 1116. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 1111 extends between thefirst aviary cage 1121A and the second aviary cage 1121B. In anembodiment, a scratching floor 1111 extends between the second aviarycage 1121B and the third aviary cage 1121C. In an embodiment, ascratching floor 1111 extends from the outside surface 1131 of the cagetower 1118.

In an embodiment, the scratching floor 1111 is configured so that aworker can walk across the scratching floor 1111 between the cage towers1118A and 1118B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 1111 is configuredso that a worker can walk between cage tower 1118A and the respectiveexterior wall 1116. In an embodiment, the scratching floor 1111 isconfigured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor 1111between the cage towers 1118C and 1118B. In an embodiment, a scratchingfloor 1111 is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower1118C and the respective exterior wall 1116. The scratching floor 1111serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floorwith their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor 1111 with their feet.In one embodiment, the scratching floor 1111 is sloped (not shown)toward the respective aviary cage 1121 to allow deposits to move backtoward the aviary cage 1121. In an embodiment including a belt 1136positioned under each aviary cage 1121, the scratching floor 1111 issloped toward the respective belt 1136 to allow deposits to move backtoward the belt 1136.

The first outside surface 1122 of the at least one aviary cage 1121includes a first perch 1129 extending into the aisle 1120. In anembodiment, each perch 1129 may extend a portion of the length of the atleast one cage tower 1118. In an embodiment, each perch 1129 may extendsubstantially the length of the at least one cage tower 1118. In anembodiment, the interior surface 1130 of the exterior wall 1116 includesa second perch 1129D extending into the aisle 1120. In an embodiment,each perch 1129D may extend a portion of the length of the interiorsurface 1130 of the exterior wall 1116 of the aviary 1110. In anembodiment, each perch 1129D may extend substantially the length of theinterior surface 1130 of the exterior wall 1116.

Referring to an embodiment, a first perch 1129A extends from the firstoutside surface 1122A of the first aviary cage 1121A and is positionedabove a first egg conveyor 1128A that extends from the first outsidesurface 1122A and that extends substantially the length of the firstcage tower 1118A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may becollected in the first egg conveyor 1128A. The first egg conveyor 1128Acarries the eggs from the aviary cage 1121A to a collection area. Thefirst perch 1129A extends into the aisle 1120 at a first verticaldistance 1123 from the scratching floor 1111. A second perch 1129Bextends from the second outside surface 1122B of the second aviary cage1121B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor 1128B that extendsfrom the second outside surface 1122B and that extends substantially thelength of the second cage tower 1118B. The second egg conveyor 1128Bcarries the eggs from the aviary cage 1121B to a collection area. Thesecond perch 1129B extends into the aisle 1120 at a second verticaldistance 1125 from the scratching floor 1111. The first verticaldistance 1123 is not equal to the second vertical distance 1125.

In an embodiment, the first vertical distance 1123 and the secondvertical distance 1125 define a third vertical distance 1127. The thirdvertical distance 1127 is configured to permit a bird to hop from thefirst perch 1129A to the second perch 1129B or vice versa.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviarydesign that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for asmany cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary 1110. In eachcase of an adjacent set of cage towers 1118, the perches 1129 of eachcage tower 1118 should be offset from the perches 1129 of the adjacentcage tower 1118 by the third vertical distance 1127 to enable a bird tohop from perch 1129 to perch 1129 through aisle 1120 in a ladder-likemanner.

In an embodiment, the first cage tower 1118A may include multiple firstegg conveyors 1128A, and the second cage tower 1118B may includemultiple second egg conveyors 1128B, wherein the first egg conveyors1128A and the second egg conveyors 1128B are staggered verticallyrelative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces1131A, 1131B of the cage towers 1118A, 1118B. In an embodiment, thefirst cage tower 1118A may include multiple first perches 1129A, and thesecond cage tower 1118B may include multiple second perches 1129B,wherein the first perches 1129A and the second perches 1129B arestaggered vertically relative to each other along the first and secondoutside surfaces 1131A, 1131B of the cage towers 1118A, 1118B.

When a first perch 1129A and a second perch 1129B are included in anembodiment, the first vertical distance 1123 and the second verticaldistance 1125 define a third vertical distance 1127, which thirdvertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds tohop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effectbetween the outside surfaces 1122A, 1122B of the aviary cages 1121A,1121B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces 1131A, 1131B of the cagetowers 1118A, 1118B.

At least one belt 1136 extends through each cage tower 1118 to remove adeposit from at least part of the cage tower 1118. In one embodiment,the belt 1136 extends through each cage tower 1118 substantially thelength of the cage tower 1118. In one embodiment, the belt 1136 extendsapproximately 400 feet along the length of each cage tower 1118. In oneembodiment, the belt 1136 carries deposits from the cage tower 1118 to acollection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower 1118.

A scratching floor 1111 extends between the first aviary cage 1121A andthe second aviary cage 1121B. The scratching floor 1111 is oriented withrespect to and positioned adjacent to a respective belt 1136. In oneembodiment, the scratching floor 1111 is planar with the respectiveadjacent belt 1136. In one embodiment, the scratching floor 1111 issloped to allow deposits to move back toward the respective belt 1136.When the birds scratch the scratching floor 1111, they scratch much ofthe deposits made on the scratching floor 1111 onto the belt 1136.Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in a scratchingarea, the scratching floor 1111 becomes relatively self-cleaning as thehens scratch. The scratching floor 1111 is configured so that thedeposits are scratched back to the respective belt 1136. Suchconfiguration reduces the required frequency for cleaning of the aviary1110. Any eggs laid on the scratching floor 1111 may be directed backtoward the belt 1136 by the scratching of the hens. These eggs are thencollected from the belt 1136 and removed from the belt 1136.

In one embodiment, the belt 1136 forms a floor of the aviary cage 1121.Accordingly, the birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt1136.

In one embodiment, eggs are removed from the belt 1136 through the useof an egg remover 1139 positioned at the end of the belt 1136. FIG. 17Ashows one embodiment of an egg remover 1139A. In the illustratedembodiment, the egg remover 1139A includes two brushes 1141 that meet ata point 1143. From the point 1143, each brush 1141 extends toward a side1147 of the belt 1136. In particular, each brush 1141 extends at anangle toward a side 1147 of the belt 1136 in the direction of movementof the belt 1136, wherein the brushes 1141 extend over the full width ofthe belt 1136. In an embodiment, the brushes 1141 are round. In thatembodiment, the brushes 1141 rotate in a direction that moves materialto at least one side 1147 of the belt 1136. In one embodiment, the brush1141 may be an auger-shaped brush. In an embodiment, the brushes 1141are flat and divert the eggs toward a side 1147 of the belt 1136.Additionally, in one embodiment, a finger belt (not shown) is utilizedto move the eggs to a side 1147 of the belt 1136. In yet anotherembodiment, any egg conveying apparatus, including but not limited to aroller having a flange, can be utilized to move the eggs to a side 1147or both sides 1147 of the belt 1136.

FIG. 17B shows another embodiment of an egg remover 1139B. The eggremover 1139B includes a single brush 1149 that extends the width of thebelt 1136 at an angle from one side 1147 of the belt 1136 to the otherside 1147 of the belt 1136. In an embodiment, the brush 1149 is round.In that embodiment, the brush 1149 rotates in a direction that movesmaterial to the downstream end of the brush 1149 with respect to thedirection of movement of the belt 1136. In an embodiment, the brush 1149is flat and moves material to the downstream end of the brush 1149 withrespect to the direction of movement of the belt 1136.

Each brush 1141, 1149 is formed from a material having a rigidity thatenables the brush 1141, 1149 to move eggs toward at least one side 1147of the belt 1136. However, the rigidity is such that the brush 1141,1149 is incapable of moving deceased birds. Rather, deceased birds passthrough and/or under the brush 1141, 1149 and are deposited at an end ofthe belt 1136. Additionally, the brush 1141, 1149 is positioned abovethe belt 1136 to enable deposits other than eggs to pass under the brush1141, 1149.

In one embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19, at least one gate1150 is positioned along at least one belt 1136 to permit deposits onthe belt 1136 to pass thereunder and/or therethrough and to preventbirds from traveling beyond the gate 1150. In one embodiment, the gate1150 includes openings 1152 operative to enable deposits to passtherethrough. In an embodiment, the gate 1150 includes overlappingplastic or cloth strips operative to enable deposits to passtherethrough and/or thereunder and to prevent birds from travelingbeyond the gate 1150. Additionally, in one embodiment, the gate 1150includes a hinge 1154 operative to rotate the gate 1150 and therebyenable larger deposits, such as eggs and dead animals, to move past thegate 1150. In an embodiment, an electric fence may be positioned on thegate 1150 to prevent live birds from entering the gate 1150. In anembodiment, an electric fence may be spaced apart from the gate 1150 toprevent birds from reaching and entering the gate 1150. In embodimentsincluding at least one gate 1150, birds are prevented from leaving apart of the aviary 1110 while deposits are permitted to travel away fromthat part of the aviary 1110.

In one embodiment shown in FIG. 20, a plurality of perches 1250 isspaced apart about an outside of a cage tower 1218. First perches 1252and second perches 1254 may be offset horizontally with respect to oneanother. In an embodiment, the first perches 1252 and the second perches1254 may be offset vertically with respect to one another. The perches1250, if they are offset from each other, may be offset by a hoppingdistance for a bird. The perches 1250 may be positioned above and belowthe egg conveyors 1228. Each perch 1250 extends into an aisle formedbetween adjacent cage towers 1218 or into an aisle formed between a cagetower 1218 and an exterior wall 1216. The usable vertical space createdby the perches 1250 provides additional habitable cubic inches for thebirds.

In one embodiment, a method of constructing an aviary 1010 is provided.The method includes positioning a first cage tower 1018A adjacent to asecond cage tower 1018B, wherein the first cage tower 1018A includes afirst aviary cage 1021A, and the second cage tower 1018B includes asecond aviary cage 1021B. In an embodiment, the method may includestacking multiple first aviary cages 1021A on top of one another. In anembodiment, each aviary cage 1021 has a first end 1005 and a second end1007. In an embodiment, the method may include forming a level in atleast one cage tower 1018 by placing at least two aviary cages 1021 in arow, with the first end 1005 of a first aviary cage 1021 adjacent thesecond end 1007 of a second aviary cage 1021. In an embodiment, eachfirst aviary cage 1021A includes a first outside surface 1022A enclosingan inside area 1013A. In an embodiment, the method may include stackingmultiple second aviary cages 1121B on top of one another. In anembodiment, each second aviary cage 1021B includes a second outsidesurface 1022B enclosing an inside area 1013B. The method may includeextending an aisle 1020 between the first aviary cage 1021A and thesecond aviary cage 1021B.

In an embodiment, the method may include extending a scratching floor1011 from a first aviary cage 1021A through the aisle 1020 to a secondaviary cage 1021B. The method may include extending a first perch 1029Afrom the first outside surface 1022A of the first aviary cage 1021A andinto the aisle 1020 at a first vertical distance 1023 from a scratchingfloor 1011. The method may include extending a second perch 1029B fromthe second outside surface 1022B of the second aviary cage 1021B andinto the aisle 1020 at a second vertical distance 1025 from thescratching floor 1011. In an embodiment, the first vertical distance1023 and the second vertical distance 1025 define a third verticaldistance 1027 in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behaviorof birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a laddereffect between the outside surfaces 1022A, 1022B of the aviary cages1021A and 1021B.

Each of the first cage tower 1018A and the second cage tower 1018B mayinclude at least one belt 1136 positioned within the inside area 1013A,1013B. The method further includes positioning the first perch 1029A andthe second perch 1029B adjacent the respective belt 1136. In oneembodiment, the respective belt 1136 forms at least one floor of eachcage tower 1018A, 1018B. The at least one belt 1136 is configured toremove a deposit from at least part of the respective cage tower 1018A,1018B. An egg remover 1139 may be positioned at an end of each belt 1136to remove eggs from the belt 1136. The egg remover 1139 may include atleast one brush 1149 to direct material to at least one side 1147 of thebelt 1136.

In an embodiment, the method may include positioning a gate 1150 inrelation to each belt 1136 to prevent animals from leaving therespective aviary cage 1021A, 1021B. The gate 1150 may include openings1152 to enable debris to pass therethrough. Additionally, the gate 1150may include a hinge 1154 to rotate the gate 1150 and thereby enable eggsand dead animals to move past the gate 1150.

FIG. 21 illustrates an aviary 2010 having a floor 2014, which aviary2010 is enclosed by exterior walls 2016 and a roof 2040. The exteriorwalls 2016 define an interior surface 2030. The exterior walls 2016enclose at least one cage tower 2018 where hens may be caged. Althoughthe illustrated embodiment shows three cage towers 2018, it should benoted that the aviary may be constructed with any number of cage towers2018, including a single cage tower 2018. In an embodiment with multiplecage towers 2018, an aisle 2020 extends between each cage tower 2018 toprovide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in theaviary 2010 may move. In an embodiment, an aisle 2020 is positionedbetween a cage tower 2018 and the respective exterior wall 2016. In anembodiment, at least one scratching floor 2011 extends between each atleast one cage tower 2018. In an embodiment, at least one scratchingfloor 2011 is positioned between a cage tower 2018 and the respectiveexterior wall 2016.

Each at least one cage tower 2018 includes at least one aviary cage2021. Each at least one aviary cage 2021 includes a first outsidesurface 2022 enclosing an inside area 2013. Each at least one cage tower2018 includes an outside surface 2031 enclosing an inside area 2032. Atleast one bump rail 2015 extends from the outside surface 2031 and intothe aisle 2020 to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle2020 without damaging the at least one cage tower 2018 or the at leastone aviary cage 2021. The bump rail 2015 may be used by the birds as aperch.

In an embodiment, a first cage tower 2018A includes a first aviary cage2021A, and a second cage tower 2018B includes a second aviary cage2021B, which second aviary cage 2021B is similar to the first aviarycage 2021A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cage tower 2018Cincludes a third aviary cage 2021C, which third aviary cage 2021C issimilar to the first aviary cage 2021A and the second aviary cage 2021B.In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages 2021A are stacked on topof one another. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage 2021A has afirst outside surface 2022A enclosing an inside area 2013A. In anembodiment, multiple second aviary cages 2021B are stacked on top of oneanother. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage 2021B includes asecond outside surface 2022B enclosing an inside area 2013B. In anembodiment, multiple third aviary cages 2021C are stacked on top of oneanother. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage 2021C includes a thirdoutside surface 2022C enclosing an inside area 2013C. The second aviarycage 2021B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage 2021A and anaisle 2020 is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage 2021B is alsopositioned adjacent the third aviary cage 2021C and an aisle 2020 isformed therebetween. In an embodiment, the second aviary cage 2021B ispositioned at a height 2019B from the scratching floor 2011 that isgreater than a height 2019A of the first aviary cage 2021A from thescratching floor 2011. In an embodiment, the second aviary cage 2021B ispositioned at a height 2019B from the scratching floor 2011 that isgreater than a height 2019C of the third aviary cage 2021C from thescratching floor 2011. In an embodiment, the height 2019A issubstantially equal to the height 2019C. In another embodiment, theheight 2019A is not equal to the height 2019C.

In an embodiment, a scratching floor 2011 extends between at least oneaviary cage 2021 and the interior surface 2030 of an adjacent exteriorwall 2016. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 2011 extends between thefirst aviary cage 2021A and the second aviary cage 2021B. In anembodiment, a scratching floor 2011 extends between the second aviarycage 2021B and the third aviary cage 2021C. In an embodiment, ascratching floor 2011 extends from the outside surface 2031 of the cagetower 2018.

In an embodiment, the scratching floor 2011 is configured so that aworker can walk across the scratching floor 2011 between the cage towers2018A and 2018B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 2011 is configuredso that a worker can walk between cage tower 2018A and the respectiveexterior wall 2016. In an embodiment, the scratching floor 2011 isconfigured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor 2011between the cage towers 2018C and 2018B. In an embodiment, a scratchingfloor 2011 is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower2018C and the respective exterior wall 2016. The scratching floor 2011serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floorwith their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor 2011 with their feet.In one embodiment, the scratching floor 2011 is sloped (not shown)toward the respective aviary cage 2021 to allow deposits to move backtoward the aviary cage 2021. In an embodiment including a belt 2036positioned under each aviary cage 2021, the scratching floor 2011 issloped toward the respective belt 2036 to allow deposits to move backtoward the belt 2036.

The first outside surface 2022 of the at least one aviary cage 2021includes a first perch 2029 extending into the aisle 2020. In anembodiment, each perch 2029 may extend a portion of the length of the atleast one cage tower 2018. In an embodiment, each perch 2029 may extendsubstantially the length of the at least one cage tower 2018. In anembodiment, the interior surface 2030 of the exterior wall 2016 includesa second perch 2029D extending into the aisle 2020. In an embodiment,each perch 2029D may extend a portion of the length of the interiorsurface 2030 of the exterior wall 2016 of the aviary 2010. In anembodiment, each perch 2029D may extend substantially the length of theinterior surface 2030 of the exterior wall 2016.

Referring to an embodiment, a first perch 2029A extends from the firstoutside surface 2022A of the first aviary cage 2021A and is positionedabove a first egg conveyor 2028A that extends from the first outsidesurface 2022A and that extends substantially the length of the firstcage tower 2018A. When hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected inthe first egg conveyor 2028A. The first egg conveyor 2028A carries theeggs from the aviary cage 2021A to a collection area. The first perch2029A extends into the aisle 2020 at a first vertical distance 2023 fromthe scratching floor 2011. A second perch 2029B extends from the secondoutside surface 2022B of the second aviary cage 2021B and is positionedabove a second egg conveyor 2028B that extends from the second outsidesurface 2022B and that extends substantially the length of the secondcage tower 2018B. The second egg conveyor 2028B carries the eggs fromthe aviary cage 2021B to a collection area. The second perch 2029Bextends into the aisle 2020 at a second vertical distance 2025 from thescratching floor 2011. The first vertical distance 2023 is not equal tothe second vertical distance 2025.

In an embodiment, the first vertical distance 2023 and the secondvertical distance 2025 define a third vertical distance 2027. The thirdvertical distance 2027 is configured to permit a bird to hop from thefirst perch 2029A to the second perch 2029B or vice versa.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviarydesign that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for asmany cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary 2010. In eachcase of an adjacent set of cage towers 2018, the perches 2029 of eachcage tower 2018 should be offset from the perches 2029 of the adjacentcage tower 2018 by the third vertical distance 2027 to enable a bird tohop from perch 2029 to perch 2029 through aisle 2020 in a ladder-likemanner. In an embodiment, the first cage tower 2018A may includemultiple first egg conveyors 2028A, and the second cage tower 2018B mayinclude multiple second egg conveyors 2028B, wherein the first eggconveyors 2028A and the second egg conveyors 2028B are staggeredvertically relative to each other along the first and second outsidesurfaces 2031A, 2031B of the cage towers 2018A, 2018B. In an embodiment,the first cage tower 2018A may include multiple first perches 2029A, andthe second cage tower 2018B may include multiple second perches 2029B,wherein the first perches 2029A and the second perches 2029B arestaggered vertically relative to each other along the first and secondoutside surfaces 2031A, 2031B of the cage towers 2018A, 2018B.

When a first perch 2029A and a second perch 2029B are included in anembodiment, the first vertical distance 2023 and the second verticaldistance 2025 define a third vertical distance 2027, which thirdvertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds tohop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effectbetween the outside surfaces 2022A, 2022B of the aviary cages 2021A,2021B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces 2031A, 2031B of the cagetowers 2018A, 2018B.

In an illustrated embodiment, a cage tower 2018C is positioned adjacentthe exterior wall 2016 and includes an aviary cage 2021C adjacent thescratching floor 2011. An egg conveyor 2028C extends from an outsidesurface 2022C of the aviary cage 2021C and into the aisle 2020. A perch2029C extends from the outside surface 2022C of the aviary cage 2021Cand is positioned above the egg conveyor 2028C. A perch 2029D extendsfrom the interior surface 2030 of the exterior wall 2016 and into theaisle 2020.

In an embodiment, the perch 2029C is elevated at a first verticaldistance 2033 from the scratching floor 2011, and the perch 2029D ispositioned at a second vertical distance 2035 from the scratching floor2011. In an embodiment, the first vertical distance 2033 and the secondvertical distance 2035 define a third vertical distance 2037, whichthird vertical distance 2037 is configured to facilitate the behavior ofbirds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a laddereffect between the aviary cage 2021C and the exterior wall 2016.

In one embodiment, an angle formed between the perch 2029C and the perch2029D is no greater than 45°, which configuration facilitates thebehavior of birds to hop from one surface to another. In one embodiment,a plurality of perches 2029C is spaced apart about the outside surface2031C of the cage tower 2018C. In one embodiment, a plurality of perches2029D is spaced apart about the interior surface 2030 of the exteriorwall 2016. Each perch 2029C, 2029D extends into the aisle 2020 toprovide usable vertical space that creates additional habitable cubicinches for the birds, thereby enabling the aviary 2010 to be consideredcage free.

In an embodiment, the perches 2029A, 2029B, 2029C are offset as a resultof the aviary cages 2021A, 2021B, 2021C being positioned at differentheights from the scratching floor 2011. Accordingly, by offsetting theheights 2019A, 2019B, 2019C of the aviary cages 2021A, 2021B, 2021C theperches 2029A, 2029B, 2029C become offset. Each of the perches 2029 areoffset in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behavior ofbirds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a laddereffect on the outside surface 2022 of the aviary cage 2021 and,concomitantly, the outside surface 2031 of the cage tower 2018. In anembodiment, the perches 2029 are sloped downward from the cage tower2018. In an embodiment, the perches 2029 extend from the outside surface2022 parallel to the scratching floor 2011. In an embodiment, theperches 2029 may extend upward from the outside surface 2022 relative tothe cage tower 2018.

FIG. 22 illustrates an aviary 2110 having a floor 2114, which aviary2110 is enclosed by exterior walls 2116 and a roof 2140. The exteriorwalls 2116 define an interior surface 2130. The exterior walls 2116enclose at least one cage tower 2118 where hens may be caged. In anembodiment having multiple cage towers 2118, an aisle 2120 extendsbetween each cage tower 2118 to provide an inspection area and space inwhich the birds housed in the aviary 2110 may move. In an embodiment, anaisle 2120 is positioned between an end cage tower 2118 and therespective exterior wall 2116. In an embodiment having multiple cagetowers 2118, at least one scratching floor 2111 extends between each atleast one cage tower 2118. In an embodiment, at least one scratchingfloor 2111 is positioned between an end cage tower 2118 and therespective exterior wall 2116

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate at least one cage tower 2118. Each at leastone cage tower 2118 includes at least one aviary cage 2121. Each atleast one aviary cage 2121 includes a first outside surface 2122enclosing an inside area 2113. Each at least one cage tower 2118includes an outside surface 2131 enclosing an inside area 2132. At leastone bump rail 2115 extends from the outside surface 2131 and into theaisle 2120 to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle 2120without damaging the at least one cage tower 2118 or the at least oneaviary cage 2121. The bump rail 2115 may be used by the birds as aperch.

In an embodiment, a first cage tower 2118A includes a first aviary cage2121A, and a second cage tower 2118B includes a second aviary cage2121B, which second aviary cage 2121B is similar to the first aviarycage 2121A. In the illustrated embodiment, a third cage tower 2118Cincludes a third aviary cage 2121C, which third aviary cage 2121C issimilar to the first aviary cage 2121A and the second aviary cage 2121B.In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages 2121A are stacked on topof one another. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage 2121A has afirst outside surface 2122A enclosing an inside area 2113A. In anembodiment, multiple second aviary cages 2121B are stacked on top of oneanother. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage 2121B includes asecond outside surface 2122B enclosing an inside area 2113B. In anembodiment, multiple third aviary cages 2121C are stacked on top of oneanother. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage 2121C includes a thirdoutside surface 2122C enclosing an inside area 2113C. The second aviarycage 2121B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage 2121A and anaisle 2120 is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage 2121B is alsopositioned adjacent the third aviary cage 2121C and an aisle 2120 isformed therebetween. In an embodiment, the second aviary cage 2121B ispositioned at a height 2119B from the scratching floor 2111 that isgreater than a height 2119A of the first aviary cage 2121A from thescratching floor 2111. In an embodiment, the second aviary cage 2121B ispositioned at a height 2119B from the scratching floor 2111 that isgreater than a height 2119C of the third aviary cage 2121C from thescratching floor 2111. In an embodiment, the height 2119A issubstantially equal to the height 2119C. In another embodiment, theheight 2119A is not equal to the height 2119C.

In an embodiment, a scratching floor 2111 extends between at least oneaviary cage 2121 and the interior surface 2130 of an adjacent exteriorwall 2116. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 2111 extends between thefirst aviary cage 2121A and the second aviary cage 2121B. In anembodiment, a scratching floor 2111 extends between the second aviarycage 2121B and the third aviary cage 2121C. In an embodiment, ascratching floor 2111 extends from the outside surface 2131 of the cagetower 2118.

In an embodiment, the scratching floor 2111 is configured so that aworker can walk across the scratching floor 2111 between the cage towers2118A and 2118B. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 2111 is configuredso that a worker can walk between cage tower 2118A and the respectiveexterior wall 2116. In an embodiment, the scratching floor 2111 isconfigured so that a worker can walk across the scratching floor 2111between the cage towers 2118C and 2118B. In an embodiment, a scratchingfloor 2111 is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower2118C and the respective exterior wall 2116. The scratching floor 2111serves as a scratching area where hens can move freely, peck the floorwith their beaks, and scratch the scratching floor 2111 with their feet.In one embodiment, the scratching floor 2111 is sloped (not shown)toward the respective aviary cage 2121 to allow deposits to move backtoward the aviary cage 2121. In an embodiment including a belt 2136positioned under each aviary cage 2121, the scratching floor 2111 issloped toward the respective belt 2136 to allow deposits to move backtoward the belt 2136.

The first outside surface 2122 of the at least one aviary cage 2121includes a first perch 2129 extending into the aisle 2120. In anembodiment, each perch 2129 may extend a portion of the length of the atleast one cage tower 2118. In an embodiment, each perch 2129 may extendsubstantially the length of the at least one cage tower 2118. In anembodiment, the interior surface 2130 of the exterior wall 2116 includesa second perch 2129D extending into the aisle 2120. In an embodiment,each perch 2129D may extend a portion of the length of the interiorsurface 2130 of the exterior wall 2116 of the aviary 2110. In anembodiment, each perch 2129D may extend substantially the length of theinterior surface 2130 of the exterior wall 2116.

Referring to an embodiment, a first perch 2129A extends from the firstoutside surface 2122A of the first aviary cage 2121A and is positionedabove a first egg conveyor 2128A that extends from the first outsidesurface 2122A and that extends substantially the length of the firstcage tower 2118A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may becollected in the first egg conveyor 2128A. The first egg conveyor 2128Acarries the eggs from the aviary cage 2121A to a collection area. Thefirst perch 2129A extends into the aisle 2120 at a first verticaldistance 2123 from the scratching floor 2111. A second perch 2129Bextends from the second outside surface 2122B of the second aviary cage2121B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor 2128B that extendsfrom the second outside surface 2122B and that extends substantially thelength of the second cage tower 2118B. The second egg conveyor 2128Bcarries the eggs from the aviary cage 2121B to a collection area. Thesecond perch 2129B extends into the aisle 2120 at a second verticaldistance 2125 from the scratching floor 2111. The first verticaldistance 2123 is not equal to the second vertical distance 2125.

In an embodiment, the first vertical distance 2123 and the secondvertical distance 2125 define a third vertical distance 2127. The thirdvertical distance 2127 is configured to permit a bird to hop from thefirst perch 2129A to the second perch 2129B or vice versa. In such anembodiment, the perches 2129A, 2129B are offset as a result of theaviary cages 2121A, 2121B being positioned at different heights.Accordingly, by offsetting the heights 2119A, 2119B of the similaraviary cages 2121A, 2121B the perches 2129A, 2129B become offset.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviarydesign that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for asmany cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary 2110. In eachcase of an adjacent set of cage towers 2118, the perches 2129 of eachcage tower 2118 should be offset from the perches 2129 of the adjacentcage tower 2118 by the third vertical distance 2127 to enable a bird tohop from perch 2129 to perch 2129 through aisle 2120 in a ladder-likemanner. It will also be understood by one of ordinary skill thatmanufacturing, assembly, and installation time may be saved whenbuilding aviary 2110 when aviary cage units 2121 are similar to eachother. Similar aviary cage units 2121 permit the construction of cagetowers 2118 with perches 2129 that are offset in height from perches2129 on cage towers 2118 that are separated by an aisle 2120 by simplyinstalling the aviary cage unit 2121 in one cage tower 2118 at a heightdifferent from the height of installation for an aviary cage unit 2121in an adjacent cage tower 2118.

In an embodiment, the first cage tower 2118A may include multiple firstegg conveyors 2128A, and the second cage tower 2118B may includemultiple second egg conveyors 2128B, wherein the first egg conveyors2128A and the second egg conveyors 2128B are staggered verticallyrelative to each other along the first and second outside surfaces2131A, 2131B of the cage towers 2118A, 2118B. In an embodiment, thefirst cage tower 2118A may include multiple first perches 2129A, and thesecond cage tower 21181B may include multiple second perches 2129B,wherein the first perches 2129A and the second perches 2129B arestaggered vertically relative to each other along the first and secondoutside surfaces 2131A, 2131B of the cage towers 2118A, 2118B.

When a first perch 2129A and a second perch 2129B are included in anembodiment, the first vertical distance 2123 and the second verticaldistance 2125 define a third vertical distance 2127, which thirdvertical distance is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds tohop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effectbetween the outside surfaces 2122A, 2122B of the aviary cages 2121A,2121B and, concomitantly, the outside surfaces 2131A, 2131B of the cagetowers 2118A, 2118B.

At least one belt 2136 extends through each cage tower 2118 to remove adeposit from at least part of the cage tower 2118. In one embodiment,the belt 2136 extends through each cage 2118 substantially the length ofthe cage tower 2118. In one embodiment, the belt 2136 extendsapproximately 400 feet along the length of each cage tower 2118. In oneembodiment, the belt 2136 carries deposits from the cage tower 2118 to acollection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower 2118.

A scratching floor 2111 extends between the first aviary cage 2121A andthe second aviary cage 2121B. The scratching floor 2111 is oriented withrespect to and positioned adjacent to a respective belt 2136. In oneembodiment, the scratching floor 2111 is planar with the respective belt2136. In an embodiment, the scratching floor 2111 is sloped to allowdeposits to move back toward the respective belt 2136. When the birdsscratch the scratching floor 2111, they scratch much of the depositsmade on the scratching floor 2111 onto the belt 2136. Accordingly, sinceit is common for birds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratchingfloor 2111 becomes relatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch. Thescratching floor 2111 is configured so that the deposits are scratchedback to the respective belt 2136. Such configuration reduces therequired frequency for cleaning of the aviary 2110. Any eggs laid on thescratching floor 2111 may be directed back toward the belt 2136 by thescratching of the hens. These eggs are then collected from the belt 2136and removed from the belt 2136.

In one embodiment, the belt 2136 forms a floor of the aviary cage 2121.Accordingly, the birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt2136.

In one embodiment, a method of constructing an aviary 2010 is provided.The method includes positioning a first cage tower 2018A adjacent to asecond cage tower 2018B, wherein the first cage tower 2018A includes afirst aviary cage 2021A, and the second cage tower 2018B includes asecond aviary cage 2021B. In an embodiment, the method may includestacking multiple first aviary cages 2021A on top of one another. In anembodiment, each aviary cage 2021 has a first end 2005 and a second end2007. In an embodiment, the method may include forming a level in atleast one cage tower 2018 by placing at least two aviary cages 2021 in arow, with the first end 2005 of a first aviary cage 2021 adjacent thesecond end 2007 of a second aviary cage 2021. In an embodiment, eachfirst aviary cage 2021A includes a first outside surface 2022A enclosingan inside area 2013A. In an embodiment, the method may include stackingmultiple second aviary cages 2121B on top of one another. In anembodiment, each second aviary cage 2021B includes a second outsidesurface 2022B enclosing an inside area 2013B. The method may includeextending an aisle 2020 between the first aviary cage 2021A and thesecond aviary cage 2021B. In an embodiment, the method may includepositioning the second aviary cage 2021B at a height 2019B from thescratching floor 2011 that is greater than a height 2019A of the firstaviary cage 2021A from the scratching floor 2011.

In an embodiment, the method may include extending a scratching floor2011 from a first aviary cage 2021A through the aisle 2020 to a secondaviary cage 2021B. The method may include extending a first perch 2029Afrom the first outside surface 2022A of the first aviary cage 2021A andinto the aisle 2020 at a first vertical distance 2023 from a scratchingfloor 2011. The method may include extending a second perch 2029B fromthe second outside surface 2022B of the second aviary cage 2021B andinto the aisle 2020 at a second vertical distance 2025 from thescratching floor 2011. In an embodiment, the first vertical distance2023 and the second vertical distance 2025 define a third verticaldistance 2027 in a spaced apart arrangement to accommodate the behaviorof birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a laddereffect between the outside surfaces 2022A, 2022B of the aviary cages2021A and 2021B.

Each of the first cage tower 2018A and the second cage tower 2018B mayinclude at least one belt 2136 positioned within the inside area 2013A,2013B. The method further includes positioning the first perch 2029A andthe second perch 2029B adjacent the respective belt 2136. In oneembodiment, the respective belt 2136 forms at least one floor of eachcage tower 2018A, 2018B. The at least one belt 2136 is configured toremove a deposit from at least part of the respective cage tower 2018A,2018B. An egg remover 2139 may be positioned at an end of each belt 2136to remove eggs from the belt 2136. The egg remover 2139 may include atleast one brush 2149 to direct material to at least one side 2147 of thebelt 2136.

FIG. 24 illustrates an aviary 3010 having a floor 3014, which aviary3010 is enclosed by exterior walls 3016 and a roof 3040. The exteriorwalls 3016 define an interior surface 3030. The exterior walls 3016enclose at least one cage tower 3018 where hens may be caged. Each atleast one cage tower 3018 includes an outside surface 3031 enclosing aninside area 3032. In an embodiment having multiple cage towers, an aisle3020 extends between each cage tower 3018 to provide an inspection areaand space in which the birds housed in the aviary 3010 may move. In anembodiment, an aisle 3020 is positioned between a cage tower 3018 andthe respective exterior wall 3016. In an embodiment having multiple cagetowers, at least one scratching floor 3011 extends between each at leastone cage tower 3018. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 3011 extendsbetween the interior surface 3030 of each exterior wall 3016 and theadjacent cage tower 3018.

FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate at least one aviary cage 3021. Each at leastone cage tower 3018 includes at least one aviary cage 3021. Each atleast one aviary cage 3021 includes a first side 3025 and a second side3023 enclosing an inside area 3013. At least one bump rail 3015 extendsfrom each of the first side 3025 and the second side 3023 and into therespective aisle 3020 to allow equipment to be maneuvered through theaisle 3020 without damaging the at least one cage tower 3018 or the atleast one aviary cage 3021. The bump rail 3015 may be used by the birdsas a perch.

Each aviary cage 3021 includes at least one nesting area 3027. Thenesting area 3027 provides space where a hen may sit to lay eggs. As thehens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors 3028 thatextend along the sides 3025 and 3023 of the aviary cage 3021. The eggconveyors 3028 carry the eggs from the nesting area 3027 to a collectionarea (not shown).

At least one belt 3036 extends through the cage tower 3018 to remove adeposit from at least part of the cage tower 3018. In an embodiment, aplurality of belts 3036 extends through the cage tower 3018 to removedeposits from at least part of the tower 3018. The plurality of belts3036 are positioned at various vertical locations within each cage tower3018. At least one belt 3036 of the plurality of belts 3036 ispositioned below the nesting area 3027 of each aviary cage 3021.Additional belts 3036 of the plurality of belts 3036 extend through thenesting area 3027 of each aviary cage 3021. In one embodiment, at leastone belt 3036 extends through the cage tower 3018 substantially thelength of the cage tower 3018. In one embodiment, the belt 3036 extendsapproximately 400 feet along the length of the cage tower 3018. In oneembodiment, the belt 3036 carries manure from the cage tower 3018 to acollection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower 3018.

In one embodiment, a grate 3039 is positioned over the belt 3036. Aportion of the grate 3039 is illustrated in FIG. 27. As illustrated inFIGS. 25-27, the grate 3039 includes openings 3082 therethrough thatallow deposits, but not eggs, to pass through the grate 3039 to the belt3036. The grate 3039 has a first end 3041 and a second end 3043. Thefirst end 3041 extends to the first side 3025 of the aviary cage 3021.The second end 3043 extends to the second side 3023 of the aviary cage3021. In an embodiment (not shown), the grate 3039 is flat. In anembodiment, the grate 3039 is shaped so that it is sloped toward eachend 3041 and 3043. Each end 3041, 3043 of the grate 3039 is positionedadjacent an egg conveyor 3028. The egg conveyors 3028 are adapted tocarry eggs from the aviary cage 3021 to a collection area (not shown).In one embodiment, a grate 3039 is positioned over each belt 3036.

In an embodiment, a first portion 3045 of the grate 3039 is angleddownward toward an egg conveyor 3028 positioned adjacent the first end3041 of the grate 3039. In this embodiment, a second portion 3047 of thegrate 3039 is angled downward toward an egg conveyor 3028 positionedadjacent the second end 3043 of the grate 3039. In one embodiment, thefirst portion 3045 and second portion 3047 of the grate 3039 each extendfrom a centerline 3049 of the grate 3039. In one embodiment, the firstportion 3045 and the second portion 3047 are angled from the centerline3049 at approximately a 7° to 8° angle. Eggs laid on the second portion3047 of grate 3039 roll to the respective egg conveyor 3028 adjacent thesecond end 3043 of the grate 3039, which is in the direction of arrow A(shown in FIG. 28). The egg conveyor 3028 carries the eggs to thecollection area. Eggs laid on the first portion 3045 of the grate 3039roll to the respective egg conveyor 3028 adjacent the first end 3041 ofthe grate 3039. In an embodiment in which the grate 3039 is flat, thehens scratch the eggs to an egg conveyor 3028.

In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching floor 3011 extends betweenadjacent cage towers 3018. In an embodiment, a scratching floor 3011extends between the cage tower 3018 and the respective exterior wall3016. In some embodiments, the scratching floor is solid. The scratchingfloor 3011 is oriented with respect to at least one belt 3036. In oneembodiment, the scratching floor 3011 is oriented with respect to a belt3036 that extends below the nesting area 3027 of an aviary cage 3021. Inone embodiment, the scratching floor 3011 is sloped to allow deposits tomove back toward the belt 3036. In one embodiment, the scratching floor3011 is crowned so that each side of the scratching floor 3011 slopestoward a belt 3036. In particular, in the crowned scratching floorembodiment, the scratching floor 3011 is sloped toward the grate 3039.In one embodiment (not shown), the scratching floor 3011 is flat. In anembodiment, the ends 3041 and 3043 of the grate 3039 are positionedbelow the scratching floor 3011 so that the egg conveyors 3028 extendbelow the scratching floor 3011.

The scratching floor 3011 provides a pecking area for the hens toutilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratching floor3011 provides a scratching area for birds within the aviary 3010. Whenthe birds scratch the scratching floor 3011, they scratch much of thedeposits made on the scratching floor 3011 onto the respective belt3036. Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in ascratching area, the scratching floor 3011 becomes relativelyself-cleaning as the hens scratch.

Particularly, by way of example, deposits may be scratched from thescratching floor 3011 in the direction of arrow B (shown in FIG. 28)toward the grate 3039. Deposits may be scratched toward a grate 3039from either direction on the scratching floor 3011. The deposits smallenough to pass through the openings 3082 in the grate 3039 then passthrough those openings 3082 and onto the belt 3036, from which they areremoved from the aviary 3010. Such configuration greatly reduces theamount of ammonia captured within the aviary 3010 and also reduces therequired frequency for cleaning of the aviary 3010. Those of skill inthe art will appreciate that, while FIG. 28 illustrates the movement ofa deposit toward the second end 3043 of the grate 3039, a mirror imageof the movement of a deposit toward the first end 3041 of the grate 3039may occur when a deposit is made on the first portion 3045 of the grate3039 or on the scratching floor 3011 and scratched back toward the firstend 3041 of the grate 3039.

Any eggs laid on the scratching floor 3011 are directed toward an eggconveyor 3028 by the scratching of the hens. By way of example and notof limitation, eggs laid on the scratching floor 3011 illustrated inFIG. 28 may be scratched in the direction of arrow B toward the grate3039. Eggs may be scratched toward a grate 3039 from either direction onthe scratching floor 3011. Upon reaching the grate 3039, the eggs rollor are scratched toward the respective egg conveyor 3028, such as, forexample, in the direction of arrow A along the grate 3039, under thescratching floor 3011, and into the egg conveyor 3028. In an embodiment(not shown), eggs laid on a flat scratching floor 3011 are rolled by thescratching of the hens toward the grate 3039 and, upon reaching thegrate 3039, are scratched by the hens into the egg conveyor 3028.

In the illustrated embodiment, a first cage tower 3018A includes a firstaviary cage 3021A, and a second cage tower 3018B includes a secondaviary cage 3021B, which second aviary cage 3021B is similar to thefirst aviary cage 3021A. A third cage tower 3018C includes a thirdaviary cage 3021C, which third aviary cage 3021C is similar to the firstaviary cage 3021A and the second aviary cage 3021B. In an embodiment,multiple first aviary cages 3021A are stacked on top of one another. Inan embodiment, each first aviary cage 3021A has a first outside surface3022A enclosing an inside area 3013A. In an embodiment, multiple secondaviary cages 3021B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment,each second aviary cage 3021B includes a second outside surface 3022Benclosing an inside area 3013B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviarycages 3021C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, eachthird aviary cage 3021C includes a third outside surface 3022C enclosingan inside area 3013C. The second aviary cage 3021B is positionedadjacent the first aviary cage 3021A and an aisle 3020 is formedtherebetween. The second aviary cage 3021B is also positioned adjacentthe third aviary cage 3021C and an aisle 3020 is formed therebetween.The second aviary cage 3021B is positioned at a height 3019B from thescratching floor 3011. The first aviary cage 3021A is positioned at aheight 3019A from the scratching floor 3011. Height 3019B is greaterthan height 3019A.

Referring to an embodiment, a first perch 3029A extends from the firstoutside surface 3031A of the first cage tower 3018A and is positionedabove a first egg conveyor 3028A that extends from the first outsidesurface 3031A along the sides 3025 and 3023 of the aviary cage 3021A.The first egg conveyor 3028A extends substantially the length of thefirst cage tower 3018A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may becollected in the first egg conveyor 3028A. The first egg conveyor 3028Acarries the eggs from the aviary cage 3021A to a collection area (notshown). The first perch 3029A extends into the aisle 3020 at a firstvertical distance 3070 from the scratching floor 3011. A second perch3029B extends from the second outside surface 3031B of the second cagetower 3018B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor 3028B thatextends from the second outside surface 3031B along the sides 3025 and3023 of the aviary cage 3021B. The second egg conveyor 3028B extendssubstantially the length of the second cage tower 3018B. The second eggconveyor 3028B carries the eggs from the aviary cage 3021B to acollection area (not shown). The second perch 3029B extends into theaisle 3020 at a second vertical distance 3072 from the scratching floor3011. The first vertical distance 3070 is not equal to the secondvertical distance 3072. In an embodiment, the first vertical distance3070 and the second vertical distance 3072 define a third verticaldistance 3074. The third vertical distance 3074 is configured to permita bird to hop from the first perch 3029A to the second perch 3029B orvice versa.

In an embodiment, the first cage tower 3018A may include multiple firstperches 3029A, corresponding to the number of first egg conveyors 3028A,and the second cage tower 3018B may include multiple second perches3029B, corresponding to the number of second egg conveyors 3028B,wherein the first perches 3029A and the second perches 3029B arestaggered in relation to each other along the first and second outsidesurfaces 3031A, 3031B of the cage towers 3018A, 3018B. In oneembodiment, the first perches 3029A and the second perches 3029B arestaggered vertically on the first and second outside surfaces 3031A,3031B of the cage towers 3018A, 3018B. In one embodiment, the firstperches 3029A and the second perches 3029B are staggered horizontallyalong the first and second outside surfaces 3031A, 3031B of the cagetowers 3018A, 3018B. In one embodiment, the first perches 3029A and thesecond perches 3029B are staggered vertically and horizontally on thefirst and second outside surfaces 3031A, 3031B of the cage towers 3018A,3018B.

In the illustrated embodiments, the scratching floors 3011 form threelevels 3017 in the aviary 3010, wherein each level 3017 may be accessedby a worker. A hen may walk, peck, scratch, socialize, sleep, and layeggs, as the bird desires in the inside areas 3013, 3032. These samedaily activities can be carried out on the at least one scratching floor3011. The at least one aviary cage 3021 may house a specific group ofbirds or it may be open to birds from other aviary cages 3021. In anembodiment, the cage tower 3018 may be configured to allow the birds tomove freely up and down the cage tower 3018. In an embodiment, the cagetower 3018 may be configured to keep birds in the aviary segregated byvertical level 3017. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may becollected in egg conveyors 3028 that extend along the sides of theaviary cage 3021. The egg conveyors 3028 carry the eggs from the aviarycage 3021 to a collection area.

When a first perch 3029A and a second perch 3029B are included in anembodiment, the first vertical distance 3070 and the second verticaldistance 3072 define a third vertical distance 3074, which thirdvertical distance 3074 is configured to facilitate the behavior of birdsto hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effectbetween the outside surfaces 3022A, 3022B of the aviary cages 3021A,3021B and, concomitantly, outside surfaces 3031A, 3031B of the cagetowers 3018A, 3018B.

In one embodiment, a method of forming an aviary 3010 including anaviary cage 3021 having a first side 3025, a second side 3023, and anesting area 3027 is provided. The method includes positioning thenesting area 3027 between the first side 3025 and the second side 3023and extending a belt 3036 through the nesting area 3027. A grate 3039 ispositioned over the belt 3036 so that a first end 3041 of the grate 3039extends to the first side 3025 of the aviary cage 3021, and a second end3043 of the grate 3039 extends to a second side 3023 of the aviary cage3021. A first egg conveyor 3028 is positioned at the first end 3041 ofthe grate 3039, and a second egg conveyor 3028 is positioned at thesecond end 3043 of the grate 3039.

In one embodiment, the grate 3039 is flat. In one embodiment, a firstportion 3045 of the grate 3039 is angled downward toward the eggconveyor 3028 on side 3025 of aviary cage 3021, and a second portion3047 of the grate 3039 is angled downward toward the egg conveyor 3028on side 3023 of aviary cage 3021. In one embodiment, the belt 3036 ispositioned to capture and transport debris that falls through the grate3039. In one embodiment, a scratching floor 3011 is extended from theaviary cage 3021 adjacent to the grate 3039. In one embodiment, thescratching floor 3011 is sloped toward the grate 3039 to facilitatemovement of a deposit on the scratching floor 3011 to the grate 3039. Inone embodiment, the scratching floor 3011 is a solid floor. In oneembodiment, a belt 3037 is extended above the aviary cage 3021. The belt3037 is positioned to capture and transport deposits that fall onto it.Birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt 3037.

In an embodiment (not shown), the cage tower 3018 includes the belts3036 without the grates 3039. In such an embodiment, the belts 3036,3037 carry deposits from the cage tower 3018, as described previously.In particular, deposits may be scratched onto the belts 3036 from thescratching floor 3011. In one embodiment, eggs are laid directly on thebelts 3036, 3037 and the birds walk on the moving belts 3036, 3037.

In one embodiment, a first aviary cage 3021A and a second aviary cage3021B are provided and are positioned adjacent each other. In such anembodiment, the method includes extending an aisle 3020 between thefirst aviary cage 3021A and the second aviary cage 3021B. A first perch3029A is extended from the first aviary cage 3021A and into the aisle3020 at a first vertical distance 3070 from a scratching floor 3011. Asecond perch 3029B is extended from the second aviary cage 3021B andinto the aisle 3020 at a second vertical distance 3072 from thescratching floor 3011. The first and second vertical distances 3070,3072 from the scratching floor 3011 are not equal.

In one embodiment, the aviary 3010 includes a plurality of first perches3029A and a plurality of second perches 3029B. The method in thisembodiment includes horizontally offsetting the plurality of firstperches 3029A from one another and horizontally offsetting the pluralityof second perches 3029B from one another. In one embodiment, the aviary3010 includes a plurality of first perches 3029A and a plurality ofsecond perches 3029B, and the method includes vertically offsetting theplurality of first perches 3029A from one another and verticallyoffsetting the plurality of second perches 3029B from one another. Inone embodiment, the first vertical distance 3070 and the second verticaldistance 3072 define a third vertical distance 3074. The third verticaldistance 3074 enables an animal to hop between the first perch 3029A andthe second perch 3029B or vice versa. In such an embodiment, the perches3029A, 3029B are offset as a result of the aviary cages 3021A, 3021Bbeing positioned at different heights. Accordingly, by offsetting theheights 3019A, 3019B of the similar aviary cages 3021A, 3021B theperches 3029A, 3029B become offset.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviarydesign that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for asmany cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary 3010. In eachcase of an adjacent set of cage towers 3018, the perches 3029 of eachcage tower 3018 should be offset from the perches 3029 of the adjacentcage tower 3018 by the third vertical distance 3027 to enable a bird tohop from perch 3029 to perch 3029 through aisle 3020 in a ladder-likemanner. It will also be understood by one of ordinary skill thatmanufacturing, assembly, and installation time may be saved whenbuilding aviary 3010 when aviary cage units 3021 are similar to eachother. Similar aviary cage units 3021 permit the construction of cagetowers 3018 with perches 3029 that are offset in height from perches3029 on cage towers 3018 that are separated by an aisle 3020 by simplyinstalling the aviary cage unit 3021 in one cage tower 3018 at a heightdifferent from the height of installation for an aviary cage unit 3021in an adjacent cage tower 3018.

FIGS. 29-30 illustrate an aviary 7010 configured to house hens. Itshould be noted that the aviary walkway and ventilation system andmethod described in FIGS. 29-33 may be utilized with any of theembodiments described in FIGS. 1-28 and the foregoing description. Theaviary 7010 may include a floor 7014, walls 7016, and a roof 7012. Atleast one cage tower 7018 where hens may be caged is disposed within theaviary 7010. A bottom space 7082 of the aviary 7010 includes space abovethe floor 7014 and below a lowermost level 7204, as shown in FIG. 29. Atop space 7080 of the aviary 7010 includes space adjacent to the roof7012. The aviary 7010 may be constructed with any number of cage towers7018, including a single cage tower 7018.

In accordance with further aspects of the illustrated embodiment shownin FIG. 29, at least one plenum 7070 is disposed on one of the walls7016. In one embodiment, at least one plenum 7070 may be formed in eachof the walls 7016. In one embodiment, at least one plenum 7070 may bedisposed on each of the walls 7016. In one embodiment, a plurality ofplenums 7070 is spaced along at least one of the walls 7016. In oneembodiment, a plurality of plenums 7070 is equally spaced along thewalls 7016. In an embodiment, the plurality of plenums 7070 is spaced tomaximize air circulation through the aviary 7010. In one embodiment,each plenum in the plurality of plenums 7070 has the same width anddepth. In one embodiment, the width and depth of each plenum in theplurality of plenums 7070 is selected to maximize air circulationthrough the aviary 7010.

Referring again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 29, the at least oneplenum 7070 includes a top interior opening 7072 that opens at an upperinterior location of the aviary 7010, an exterior opening 7073, and abottom opening 7074. In one embodiment, the top interior opening 7072 ispositioned adjacent the top space 7080 of the aviary 7010. In oneembodiment, the bottom opening 7074 is positioned adjacent the bottomspace 7082 of the aviary 7010. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottomopening 7074 is positioned below the lowermost level 7204 adjacent thebottom space 7082. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 29, a fan 7056 ispositioned at the bottom opening 7074 to draw air through the plenum7070. The at least one plenum 7070 cooperates with the fan 7056 tocirculate air from the top space 7080 of the aviary 7010 to the bottomspace 7082 of the aviary 7010.

The fan 7056 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 29 is a variable speed fan.The speed of the fan 7056 may depend on the air circulation requirementswithin the aviary 7010 at any given time. For example, during especiallyhumid conditions, the speed of the fan 7056 may be increased to improvethe manure drying function of the circulating air. In an embodiment, thespeed of the fan 7056 may be remotely or automatically controlled. In anembodiment, the fan 7056 may have a fixed speed. Although only one fan7056 is shown at the base of the plenum 7070, multiple fans may be used.Additionally, the fan or fans 7056 may be positioned at any location inthe aviary 7010 in air communication with the plenum 7070.

The cage towers 7018 of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 29 and 30 aredisposed on the floor 7014 of the aviary 7010. Scratching floors 7038 ofthe illustrated embodiment extend between the cage towers 7018 and froma cage tower to one or more walls 7016 to form a plurality of levels7204. Each level 7204 includes one or more nesting areas 7022. AlthoughFIGS. 29 and 30 show two levels 7204 in the aviary 7010, any number oflevels 7204 may be used, including a single level.

In an embodiment, the one or more scratching floors 7038 may providestability to each of the cage towers 7018 by joining the cage towers7018 together. In an embodiment, the one or more scratching floors 7038may join the cage tower 7018 that is adjacent one or more of the walls7016 to the one or more respective walls 7016 to provide stability tothe cage tower 7018.

The illustrated embodiment includes three cage towers 7018 in the aviary7010. An open space 7020 extends between adjacent cage towers 7018 toprovide an inspection area and facilitate airflow. In an embodimenthaving more than two cage towers 7018, an open space 7020 may extendbetween each adjacent cage tower 7018. In an embodiment having a singlecage tower 7018, an open space 7020 is present on at least one side ofthe cage tower 7018. An open space 7020 may be positioned between thecage tower 7018 and one or more respective walls 7016. The open space7020 may include a floor 7038 serving as a pecking area where hens canmove freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the floor withtheir feet.

In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, the two levels7204 include the spaces 7020 above the scratching floors 7038 adjacenteach cage tower 7018. Walkways 7210 are disposed in the spaces 7020 tofacilitate travel by a hen between the nesting area 7022 and thescratching floor 7038. In an embodiment, at least one walkway 7210 isprovided on each side of each cage tower 7018. However, any number ofwalkways 7210 may be provided in one or more spaces 7020 of the aviary7010 and still come within the scope of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 30, walkways 7210 extend from the scratching floors7038 to the nesting areas 7022. It will be understood by one of ordinaryskill in the art that the walkways 7210 have a width and are set at anangle to allow birds to comfortably traverse the walkways 7210 to accessthe nesting areas 7022.

In one embodiment, when the outside air temperature is such that thetraditional tunnel ventilation could cause stress to the poultry (cooltemperatures), warm air 7086 is drawn through the plenum 7070 from thetop 7080 of the aviary 7010 to the bottom 7082 of the aviary 7010, asshown in FIG. 29. In an embodiment, fresh (cold) air 7212 may be drawninto the aviary 7010 through the exterior opening 7073 into the plenum7070. As the fresh air 7212 is drawn into the plenum 7070, it mixes withthe warm air 7086 to create a flow of mixed air 7214 for circulationthrough the aviary 7010. Allowing cold and warm air to mix in the plenum7070 prior to introduction into the aviary 7010 prevents cold air 7212from directly contacting birds near the location where cold air entersthe aviary 7010, thereby reducing stress on the birds. As well,introducing fresh air into the aviary 7010 improves the air qualityinside the aviary 7010.

In one embodiment, the flow of warm air 7086 or cold air 7212 may beindividually controlled to limit the flow volume of each into the aviary7010. In an embodiment, one or more dampers, valves, or otherflow-limiting devices are disposed at one or both of the exterioropening 7073 and the interior opening 7072. Such flow-limiting devicesmay be manually, remotely, or automatically controlled to adjust one ormore of: an amount of cold air 7212 flowing through the exterior opening7073, an amount of warm air 7086 flowing through the interior opening7072, and the temperature of the mixed air 7214. Those of skill in theart will recognize that there may be climatic conditions that requirethe mixed air 7214 to consist of all fresh air 7212 in an embodiment orall warm air 7086 in an embodiment to maintain an interior temperaturethat is healthy for the poultry contained in the aviary 7010.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 30, the fan 7056 draws mixed air 7214from the plenum 7070 at a first end 7216 of the aviary 7010. At leastone exhaust fan 7218 is disposed in a wall 7016 at the first end 7216 ofthe aviary 7010. In an embodiment, a plurality of exhaust fans aredisposed in the wall 7016 at the first end 7216 of the aviary 7010 wherethey operate to pull air through the aviary 7010 when tunnel ventilationis employed. The speed of the exhaust fans 7218 of the illustratedembodiment may be variably controlled to modify the amount of airexhausted from the aviary 7010 from zero air exhausted to a desiredamount. Those of skill in the art will understand the proper fan speedto maximize bird health and comfort.

The fan 7056 propels the mixed air 7214 in a first direction 7220 awayfrom the first end 7216 and along the bottom space 7082. The mixed air7214 then circulates upward through at least one grated floor 7222located at a second end 7224 of the aviary 7010. In the embodiment shownin FIG. 30, the aviary 7010 includes two levels 7204 above the bottomspace 7082. For multiple level aviaries, such as the aviary 7010 shownin FIG. 30, the aviary includes a grated floor 7222 at the second end7224 of each level 7204. In an embodiment having a single level aviary,a single grated floor 7222 may be positioned at the second end 7224 ofthe single level 7204. After the mixed air 7214 passes through thegrated floor 7222, the mixed air 7214 circulates in a second direction7226 toward the first end 7216 of the aviary 7010.

In an embodiment, one or more solid floors 7039 are disposed between thelowermost level 7204 and the bottom space 7082. The one or more solidfloors 7039 separate the air flowing in the first direction 7220 belowthe one or more solid floors 7039 from the air flowing in the seconddirection 7226 above the one or more solid floors 7039. Such separationprevents the one or more exhaust fans 7218 from competing with the fan7056 for control of the airflow in the aviary 7010. In an embodiment,the one or more solid floors 7039 are disposed at the first end 7216 ofthe aviary. However, notwithstanding the position of the grated floor7222, the one or more solid floors 7039 may be disposed anywhere betweenthe lowermost level 7204 and the bottom space 7082 to separate the airflowing in the first direction 7220 below the one or more solid floors7039 from the air flowing in the second direction 7226 above the one ormore solid floors 7039.

In an embodiment shown in FIG. 30, the mixed air 7214 circulates aroundthe walkways 7210 as it travels toward the first end 7216. The walkways7210 are positioned in the path of the mixed air 7214 and causeturbulence to the airflow 7226. Such turbulence, especially withrelatively low airflow rates, enhances the manure drying capabilities ofthe mixed air 7214. Further, the walkways 7210 are angled such that theupper surface 7211 of each walkway 7210 may be used by the birds forwalking, roosting, nesting, and scratching. Some of the air moving inthe second direction 7226 hits the walkways 7210. The upper surface 7211of each walkway 7210 faces at least partially in the second direction7226. This configuration directs at least a portion of the mixed air7214 moving in the second direction 7226 in a downward and/or outwarddirection 7240 into the nesting areas 7022 and bottom of each level7204, thereby further enhancing manure drying in those areas.

Referring again to FIG. 29, a portion of the mixed air 7214 may alsocirculate through gaps 7228 between the scratching floor 7038 and thecage tower 7018. Such movement of the mixed air 7214 around and throughthe nesting areas 7022 and cage towers 7018 further enhances manuredrying in these structures. Additionally, the airflow contemplated bythe present invention facilitates air mixing throughout the aviary 7010to permit slower minimum airflow rates than would be required for birdhealth and comfort using a traditional aviary ventilation system.

In an embodiment having offset cage structures, such as that discussedpreviously and shown in FIG. 24, air movement is further facilitatedthrough the spaces created by the aviary cage 3021 offsets on everyother cage tower 3018 in a multiple cage tower 3018 embodiment. In anembodiment, these offset areas are off-limits to birds and therebyprovide open space through which mixed air 7214 may flow. This enhancedflow created by the open space in the offset areas enhances manuredrying in the aviary 7010. In an embodiment, such as any of theembodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 21, 22, 24-26, and29-30, cage and perch structures have surface area exposed to theairflow in the second direction 7226 which surface area increasesturbulence and impingement. Such turbulence and impingement enhancesmanure drying in the aviary 7010.

Referring now to FIG. 31, an embodiment of the present disclosureillustrates a method 7100 of circulating air in an aviary. The method7100 includes providing, at step 7101, an aviary having at least onewall and a top space. The method further includes providing, at step7102, a plenum disposed on at least one wall of the aviary, providing,at step 7103, a cage tower, and providing, at step 7104, at least onewalkway 7210 adjacent the cage tower 7018. In an embodiment, the plenum7070 may be disposed in at least one wall 7016 of the aviary 7010. Themethod 7100 further includes drawing, at step 7106, air 7086 having atemperature higher than air 7212 located outside of the aviary 7010 fromthe top space 7080 of the aviary 7010 through the plenum 7070 anddrawing, at step 7108, the outside air 7212 into the aviary 7010 throughthe plenum 7070. The warm air 7086 and the outside air 7212 are thenmixed, at step 7110, to create mixed air 7214. The mixed air 7214 isthen circulated, at step 7112, around the at least one walkway 7210.

In an embodiment, the method 7100 includes circulating the mixed air7214 in a first direction 7220 along a bottom space 7082 in the aviary7010 before circulating the mixed air 7214 around the walkway 7210 in asecond direction 7226 opposite the first direction 7220. In a furtherembodiment, as the mixed air 7214 circulates around the walkway 7210,the mixed air 7214 is directed downward. The method 7100 of oneembodiment further includes providing a nesting area 7022 in the cagetower 7018 and circulating the mixed air 7214 through and below thenesting area 7022. The method 7100 of an embodiment includes providing aplurality of spaces 7020 adjacent the cage tower 7018, whereincirculating the mixed air 7214 comprises circulating the mixed air 7214through the plurality of spaces 7020.

Referring now to FIG. 32, an embodiment of the present disclosureillustrates a method 7300 of circulating air in an aviary. The method7300 includes providing, at step 7301, an aviary having at least onewall and a top space. The method 7300 further includes providing, atstep 7302, a plenum disposed on at least one wall of the aviary,providing, at step 7303, a cage tower, and providing, at step 7304, atleast one walkway 7210 adjacent the cage tower 7018. The method 7300further includes drawing, at step 7306, air 7086 having a temperaturehigher than air 7212 located outside of the aviary 7010 from the topspace 7080 of the aviary 7010 through the plenum 7070. The air 7212 isthen circulated, at step 7312, around the at least one walkway 7210.

Referring now to FIG. 33, an embodiment of the present disclosureillustrates a method 7400 of circulating air in an aviary. The method7400 includes providing, at step 7401, an aviary having at least onewall. The method 7400 further includes providing, at step 7402, a plenumdisposed on at least one wall of the aviary, providing, at step 7403, acage tower, and providing, at step 7404, at least one walkway 7210adjacent the cage tower 7018. The method 7400 further includes drawing,at step 7408, air 7212 located outside of the aviary 7010 into theaviary 7010 through the plenum 7070. The air 7212 is then circulated, atstep 7412, around the at least one walkway 7210.

While the embodiments have been illustrated and described in detail inthe drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered asillustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood thatonly certain embodiments have been shown and described and that allchanges and modifications that come within the spirit of the embodimentsare desired to be protected.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of circulating air in an aviarycomprising: providing an aviary having at least one wall; providing aplenum disposed on the at least one wall of the aviary; providing atleast one cage tower; providing at least one walkway adjacent the atleast one cage tower; drawing air having a temperature higher than airlocated outside of the aviary toward the floor through the plenum;drawing air located outside of the aviary through the plenum and intothe aviary; mixing the higher temperature air and the outside air tocreate mixed air; and circulating the mixed air around the at least onewalkway.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein circulating the mixed aircomprises circulating the mixed air in a first direction through abottom space in the aviary.
 3. The method of claim 2, whereincirculating the mixed air further comprises circulating the mixed airaround the at least one walkway in a second direction opposite the firstdirection.
 4. The method of claim 1, further comprising directing atleast a portion of the mixed air downward as the mixed air circulatesaround the at least one walkway.
 5. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising providing a nesting area in the at least one cage tower andcirculating the mixed air through and below the nesting area.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, further comprising providing a plurality of spacesadjacent the at least one cage tower, wherein circulating the mixed aircomprises circulating the mixed air through the plurality of spaces. 7.A method of circulating air in an aviary comprising: providing an aviaryhaving at least one wall, a top space, and a floor; providing a plenumdisposed on the at least one wall of the aviary; providing at least onecage tower; providing at least one walkway adjacent the at least onecage tower; drawing air from the top space of the aviary toward thefloor through the plenum; and circulating the air around the at leastone walkway.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein the drawing air stepfurther comprises drawing air located outside of the aviary through theplenum and into the aviary.
 9. The method of claim 7, wherein thedrawing air step further comprises drawing air from the top space havinga temperature higher than air located outside of the aviary toward thefloor through the plenum.
 10. The method of claim 7, wherein circulatingthe air comprises circulating the air in a first direction through abottom space in the aviary.
 11. The method of claim 10, whereincirculating the air further comprises circulating the mixed air aroundthe at least one walkway in a second direction opposite the firstdirection.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising directing atleast a portion of the air downward as the air circulates around the atleast one walkway.
 13. The method of claim 7, further comprisingproviding a nesting area in the at least one cage tower and circulatingthe air through and below the nesting area.
 14. The method of claim 7,further comprising providing a plurality of spaces adjacent the at leastone cage tower, wherein circulating the air comprises circulating theair through the plurality of spaces.